Workshop #1, 8:30 to 10:00 a.m.

A. Creative Writing

This workshop will explore the fundamentals of storytelling, character development, building tension within a story, and how to write from a particular point of view. We will work on thinking and expressing ourselves creatively and the importance of sharing ideas and collaborating.

John Townsend-Mehler, Assistant Teaching Professor, MSU Department of Ecology

B. Astro Adventures

This workshop is repeated as workshop G in timeslot #2.

Learn about astronomy topics such as solar system distances in a solar walk around the MSU campus. We will talk about the Sun-Earth Connection, discussing solar features such as sunspots and the northern lights and what current solar research is in Montana. We will discuss astrobiology, including the requirements for life on other planets. We will also cover the Mars rovers and how they operate.

Jessica Myron, teacher, Glendive Public Schools

C. Microscope Biology

This workshop is repeated as workshop H in timeslot #2.

Science can be very slow or very fast! In this course, we’ll watch crystals grow, cells swim and observe what happens when plants are thirsty. You’ll even get to use an electron microscope. Get ready for some cool (and tiny!) hands-on biology.

Christa Merzdorf, Associate Professor, MSU Department of Microbiology and Cell Biology, and Martin Lawrence, Professor, MSU Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry

D. Charmed by Charms

We will explore multiple techniques (including polymer clay, found object assemblage, beading and more) to make charms throughout the week. On the last day, participants can add their charms to a bracelet, necklace or keychain to create a piece of jewelry showcasing their charms!

Josie Parry, Professional Artist, Alara Jewelry

E. Parasympathetic Nervous System

This course will engage students in hands-on learning about emotional intelligence. Different mindfulness strategies such as movement, breathwork, sound therapy and personal reflection will provide students with emotional regulation tools. We will explore the science of each modality, reflect and practice.

Jocelyn Larson, Associate Director of Programs, MSU Recreational Sports and Fitness

Workshop #2, 10:20 to 11:50 a.m.

F. Ceramics

Get ready for a hands-on, creative adventure in our exciting ceramics workshop! Unleash your inner artist as you dive into the world of clay, experimenting with fun hand-building techniques and hand painting. Throughout the workshop, you'll create a beautiful, one-of-a-kind piece while discovering your unique artistic style. Whether you're a beginner or experienced, this is your chance to get your hands dirty, make something amazing, and have a blast along the way!

Taylor King, Instructor, Bozeman Community Kiln

G. Astro Adventures

This workshop is repeat of workshop B in timeslot #1.

Learn about astronomy topics such as solar system distances in a solar walk around the MSU campus. We will talk about the Sun-Earth Connection, discussing solar features such as sunspots and the northern lights and what current solar research is in Montana. We will discuss astrobiology, including the requirements for life on other planets. We will also cover the Mars rovers and how they operate.

Jessica Myron, teacher, Glendive Public Schools

H. Microscope Biology

This workshop is a repeat of workshop C in timeslot #1.

Science can be very slow or very fast! In this course, we’ll watch crystals grow, cells swim and observe what happens when plants are thirsty. You’ll even get to use an electron microscope. Get ready for some cool (and tiny!) hands-on biology.

Christa Merzdorf, Associate Professor, MSU Department of Microbiology and Cell Biology, and Martin Lawrence, Professor, MSU Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry

I. Engineering the Future: Hands-On Exploration of Robotics, Biomechanics and Fluid Dynamics!

Learn about mechanical engineering through exciting hands-on activities in biomechanics, robotics and fluid dynamics! Campers will explore human movement and prosthesis design biomechanics, control a robotic prosthetic arm, learn about magnetic microrobots and build robots that mimic insect pollination. They'll also investigate fascinating fluid properties, such as walking on water, generating electricity from flowing liquids and even using fluids to solve a maze!

Professors and graduate students from the MSU College of Engineering

J. Medical Mystery Detectives: Solve the Cases, Save the Day!

Your team of junior medical detectives has been called to investigate three patients with mysterious symptoms. Over the course of the week, you’ll learn about different body systems, uncover clues and work to diagnose each patient. At the end of the week, your team will present your findings and solutions.

DeeDee Dalke, Allied Health Director, Gallatin College

Workshop #3, 1:15 to 2:45 p.m.

K. TypoQuest: Design, Experiment, Innovate!

Campers will explore typography through found objects in nature, creative materials and AI tools. Over five days, campers will design a series of one-page wonder books, combining handmade and generative AI-enhanced letterforms to create a unique, interactive typography experience that blends creativity, technology and self-expression in a fun and engaging way.

William Culpepper, Assistant Professor, MSU School of Art

L. Wilderness Skills

Spend the afternoon with the MSU Outdoor Recreation Program! Join us to learn about bear safety, the seven Leave-No-Trace principles, map reading and navigation and how to tie knots! We will also play many games, practice teamwork and learn leadership skills.

Margot Kuntz, Program Lead, MSU Outdoor Recreation Program

M. Movie Magic

Explore the movie-making process! From script breakdown to creating the edit, dive into a hands-on experience to produce movie magic. Unlock your imagination, tell your story and acquire new skills through this hands-on filmmaking experience.

Alexa Alberda, Instructor, MSU School of Film and Photography

N. NASA: Lego and Drones

If you are interested in science and NASA's Artemis Mission, join the Artemis ROADS III Challenge (Rover Observation and Discoveries in Space). ROADS takes inspiration from real NASA projects and guides students on space-related missions. Recreate a Mars landing using drones and robots, program a Lego rover to complete the mission of exploring the Martian surface and bring back a rock sample!

Aimee Doe-Stephens, Teacher, Chief Joseph Middle School

O. Not Your Average ASL Class

Learn American Sign Language (ASL) to communicate with your friends, family, and people who are deaf, hard-of-hearing, or nonverbal. Sign stories and songs, and play fun sign and fingerspelling games.

Linda Zupan, Instructor, Gallatin College

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