Summer Career Discovery Program

The 2013 Summer Career Discovery Program will be held July 14-26.

To apply, please click here, read the handbook and complete the accompanying application. Deadline has been extended to June 28. Applications must be received by June 3 to be considered for a scholarship.

The Summer Career Discovery program is an intensive two-week program held at the University of Kentucky College of Design. The program is open to high school students who will be juniors and seniors in the fall semester of 2013. Graduating seniors who have been admitted to the University of Kentucky (including the College of Design) and would like to get a head start on design concepts and skills are also encouraged to attend.

The goal of the program is to explore the many facets of design education. A major emphasis will be placed on the foundational experience of an intensive design studio, where individual education is enhanced and nurtured in a collective environment. Participants will be challenged to think creatively, analyze design, and present their work to peers and professionals.

Over the course of two weeks, participants will take part in a variety of events on and off campus (from morning till evening), including lectures, field trips, office visits, and workshops. Events are structured to broaden the participant's understanding of design professions, and serve as an introduction to design thinking, problem solving, the Lexington community, and the University of Kentucky.

Typical Daily Schedule
8 – 9    Breakfast
9 – 12  Workshop, Field Trip, or Tour
12 – 1  Lecture, or Discussion
1 – 2    Lunch
2 – 6    Studio or Field Trip
6 – 7   Dinner
7 – 9    Work Session - Reading - Movie

Where
While on campus all events related to the Summer Career Discovery Program will take place in Pence Hall and the Funkhouser Building, in the heart of the University of Kentucky's central campus. Off campus events will take place in and around Lexington, including regional cities.

Admission
Admission into the Summer Career Discovery Program is regulated through a selective admission procedure. Participants are selected according to the merit of their cumulative GPA, the quality of their statement of interest, and the strength of their recommendations (see application for directions).

Upon acceptance into the program, you will be required to pay a tuition fee (unless you have been awarded a scholarship) that will cover all program costs including tuition, housing, food, and tours. Upon receipt of the tuition fee you will be mailed a packet with additional details about the program, and release forms.

Tuition fees can be made by certified check or money order made payable to the University of Kentucky (please be sure that the participant's name is written on the check), or you can pay online at the link above.

Scholarships
Scholarships are available to participants based on a combination of factors including academic merit, creative accomplishment, financial need, and diversity of background.

If you are interested in applying for a scholarship please attach an essay that describes how this scholarship will further your interest in the field of design (250 words or less). Applicant name and address must be included on the essay.

Housing
Participants will stay in a University of Kentucky dormitory, just a short walk from daily activities. (housing is included in tuition). Participants will share a room with another Summer Career Discovery participant. Typical dorm rooms are furnished with two twin beds, two desks, two chairs, a chest of drawers and a trashcan. The dorm rooms do not have activated phone lines, however there are phones available at the dormitory’s front desk and the College of Design.

University of Kentucky dormitories have 24-hour front desk coverage where attendants provide information and security. In addition, participants will be supervised by a chaperone who will reside in the dorm. Male and female participants are housed on different floors of the building. Linens and laundry facilities are provided. Wireless Internet is available on much of UK’s campus, including Pence Hall.

Meals
All meals are provided, including snacks and beverages during daily activities. Dietary restrictions will be accommodated, please make sure to note these considerations on the consent form.

Past Sessions

To learn about what participants can expect from the Summer Career Discovery Program, please view the article and videos listed below. Please be sure to connect with us via Facebook. 

UKNOW: Prospective Design Students Get a Peak at College Life

Images from the 2012 Sessions: