Engineering Academic Boot Camp helps students adjust before classes begin
Over the past two weeks, fourteen incoming first-year engineering students got a taste of college life, learning how to navigate coursework and extracurricular activities.
The third annual University of Georgia Engineering Academic Boot Camp, hosted by the College of Engineering, concluded Friday, July 26, with a luncheon for incoming students, their families, faculty, staff, and sponsors.
The intense, two-week-long experience helps incoming students adjust to university life and prepare themselves for university-level courses. With the goal of promoting success at UGA, camp participants attend lectures, complete assignments and projects, participate in assessments, and partake in skills sessions, all while learning effective study and time-management skills in a forgiving environment.
Students attended daily classes with College of Engineering faculty member and graduate students.
“This program is designed to ease the transition to college while building academic confidence and community,” said camp organizer and assistant dean of inclusive excellence Sonia Garcia. “In just two weeks, these students have demonstrated incredible growth and enthusiasm. We know they’re walking into the fall semester not only prepared, but inspired.”
During the camp, students have the opportunity to work closely with engineering faculty members, visit engineering laboratories and facilities, and engage with industry leaders. The program allows students to build community and network with peers, faculty, staff, and alumni prior to the start of fall classes.
“The boot camp pushed me out of my comfort zone in the best way,” said camp participant Cairo Reed. “I feel much more confident and ready for the challenges ahead thanks to the support from faculty, mentors, and my peers. It’s like I’ve already found my place in the engineering community at UGA.”
For the duration of the program, students live in a residence hall and become familiar with campus and the surrounding Athens community through group excursions.
Students and faculty pose with representatives from Georgia Power, Gulfstream, and Lockheed Martin.
The Engineering Academic Boot Camp is fully funded by Georgia Power, Gulfstream, and Lockheed Martin. Registration, housing, meals, and materials are all cost-free for participants.
“We are grateful to Georgia Power, Gulfstream, and Lockheed Martin for their unwavering commitment to educational equity,” Garcia said. “Their generous support allows us to offer this transformative experience at no cost to first generation and incoming students, ensuring that financial barriers never stand in the way of engineering excellence.”
Writer: Lillian Ballance, [email protected]
