Summer Program Spotlight – EPIC @ Cal Poly SLO

By Irene Chung

Are you interested in engineering but don’t know what field would be best? Do you like hands-on projects? Are you looking to build connections with others who share similar interests?

You can do all that through Cal Poly San Luis Obispo’s Engineering Possibilities in College (EPIC)!

EPIC is a week-long residential summer camp for rising 6th-12th graders, where students can explore the different fields of engineering through hands-on activities with Cal Poly SLO instructors and industry professionals. The camp also hosts guest speakers, Cal Poly SLO engineering student panels, and an engineering major fair. In addition, students get to experience campus life and participate in fun social activities.

Examples of labs:

Design of a Green City

Fun with rockets!

3D Printing

Python Programming, Fun with Geomatics

Arduino: Rube Goldberg Machine, Fun with Arduino Microcontroller

Mechatronics Lab and Programming

Engine Dissection and Reassembly

Detecting Microbial Pathogens Lab

Summer 2024 program dates:

• Session 1 – June 30-July 5 (Rising 6-8th grade)
• Session 2 – July 7-12 (Rising 9-12th grade)
• Session 3 – July 14-19 (Rising 9-12th grade)
• Session 4 – July 21-26 (Rising 9-12th grade)

How to apply:

• Fill out the application.
• The application requires a 250-word statement answering why you would like to attend EPIC.
• No letters of recommendation or transcript are required.

Application deadline:  Is typically the end of March

Cost: $1,975 (2024) (this covers everything – classes, labs, activities, social events, housing, & meals). Need-based scholarships are also available.

If you’re interested in engineering, this would be a great summer program to apply to! Feel free to contact your CPSI counselor if you have any questions.