Over 60 sixth through ninth-grade Cincinnati Public Schools (CPS) students had an incredible opportunity to explore higher education during a four-day residential program at Miami University. From June 26 to June 29, the young learners participated in Camp Excel, immersing themselves in the college environment and culture.
Camp Excel provided the students with a unique experience as they ventured into various classrooms and engaged with professors at Miami University. The program, aimed to broaden their horizons, gives students insight into college-level courses, such as robotics and supply chain management.
Media professor Andy Rice and journalism senior lecturer Joe Sampson worked with students first-hand in a thorough lesson about sounds for films and television. Other students had the opportunity to get their hands on bottles and beakers in chemistry classes.
All expenses for the program, including the students' stay in the Dorsey Hall dorms were paid for by Miami University and CPS. The professors themselves donated their time and supplies to the students learning.
In addition to being a professor of global and intercultural studies for Miami University, Dr. Rodney Coates serves as the camps’ director. This is the second year for Camp Excel, but the foundation for the program was laid much further back.
“Dr. Coates and I met in 2013 when I took a group of students to Miami University in the summer,” William Johnson, Cincinnati Public Schools M.O.R.E. district coordinator said. “From there we created a relationship that included creating a summer program for students with a ‘college style’ lifestyle day. Last year, we turned that into an overnight experience that included Girls to Women.”
Johnson said the students appreciated the program and only wished it was longer.
