Pro Summer Camps
Are you a high schooler with a passion for Coding & Public Speaking? Are you ready to go to the next level??
Keep reading to learn more about our Summer Pro Camps.
Pro Coding & Public Speaking Summer Camps
Are you ready for the next level?
These summer camps are designed to provide the fundamentals for multiple programming languages and to teach you the skills to conquer the podium. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced coder, if you have or haven't done a presentation, there is a camp for you! All summer camps are intended for rising grades 9 and up, but exceptions can be made for rising grades 7+ if the student has previous coding experience (please call us to discuss).
Note: All Pro Coding Camps are in the MORNING and teaching is VIRTUAL. Students can meet at the center (4200 McKee Road) in the afternoons for collaboration sessions. Public Speaking camp will be IN-PERSON
Summer Programs
Ultimate Gaming
Unity + JavaScript
Code with Python
Data Science Basics
Artifical Intelligence
Classifications
Artifical Intelligence
Deep Learning
Public Speaking
Building Leadership
Ultimate Gaming: Unity + JavaScript
**Exceptions can be made for rising 7+ grades if they have prior coding experience or have taken a coding course through Thinking Feet**
June 10 - 14 | Morning
Students will begin with the fundamentals of JavaScript. Students will build a game, then progress into functional application building, encryptions and advanced games. The Advanced JavaScript Camp will build upon these fundamentals and go deeper into the programming language. Students will work with challenging concepts to create advanced projects.
Unity is the ultimate game development platform used by professionals worldwide. Campers will build simple but high-quality 3D games in Unity and C-Sharp, that can be installed and played across mobile devices, desktop or the web. This is one of the most popular platform to build 3D games. Complete package to build games with cutting edge cinematic graphics, animations and rich functional integrations. Campers will also learn the essentials of a Virtual Reality application and associated coding techniques. It will be fascinating!!
Students will Create:
- Platformer Games
- First Person Bug Shooter + Tower Defense
- First Person Comic Alien Shooter
**None of the games are violent and the characters are designed more to be comical in nature.
Technical Concepts: JavaScript
- Document Object model
- Manipulating Color, Size, Background, Images, Shapes
- Conditional, and nested loops
- Function definition and Function calls
Technical Concepts: Unity
- Simple 2D and 3D Games involving animations using x-y-z coordinates, physics, light effects, collision detection, reticle, Virtual Reality adaptation, timers, scoring, levels.
- 2D, 3D Game arena design including efficiently re-using design objects.
- Using Unity Asset libraries
- C-Sharp: linking design objects with code variables, standard starting functions, Vector3 coordinate manipulation, simple and nested loops, functions and more.
- Games include Platformers, First Person Bug Shooter, Space battles, etc.
Python Data Science Basics
**Exceptions can be made for rising 8th graders if they have prior coding experience or have taken a coding course through Thinking Feet**
June 24 - 28 | Morning
Students will jump into the basics of Data Science using Python. They will learn about Data Ingestion, Summarization, and Pre-processing all while learning to use Python Numpy and Pandas library. Then they will work on visualizing data with the Matplotlib library.
Technical Concepts
- Read Data files into Python usable datasets.
- Generate summarized data views including basic statistics for broad understanding of the dataset.
- Basic data visualization.
- Pre-process data for model building.
Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning
Linear Regression & Classifications
**Exceptions can be made for rising 8th graders with relevant prior coding experience. Please contact us to discuss.**
July 15 - 19 | Morning
The week is designed for high school students interested in exploring the foundational concepts of artificial intelligence (AI) through supervised learning techniques. Over the course of the camp week, students will gain hands-on experience with linear regression and classification algorithms, enabling them to understand and apply these methods to real-world problems. Through a combination of theoretical lessons and practical exercises, participants will develop an understanding of how AI algorithms can be used to make predictions and classify data accurately.
Throughout the camp, students will engage in coding exercises using Python and popular libraries like scikit-learn to implement and experiment with these concepts, providing them with practical skills and a deeper understanding of AI in action.
Technical Concepts
- Supervised Learning: Introduction to the concept of supervised learning, where models learn from labeled data to make predictions or decisions.
- Linear Regression: Understanding linear regression as a statistical method used for modeling the relationship between a dependent variable and one or more independent variables. Concepts include:
- Regression analysis
- Ordinary least squares method
- Evaluation metrics like mean squared error (MSE) and coefficient of determination (R-squared)
- Classification Algorithms: Exploring algorithms for classifying data into discrete categories. Key concepts include:
- Logistic Regression: A classification algorithm used to model the probability of a categorical outcome.
- Decision Trees: Tree-like models used to make decisions by splitting data based on feature values.
- Support Vector Machines (SVM): Algorithms for finding the optimal hyperplane to separate data into different classes.
- Model Evaluation: Techniques for evaluating the performance of AI models, including:
- Confusion matrix
- Accuracy, precision, recall, and F1-score
- Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curve and Area Under the Curve (AUC)
- Feature Engineering: Preprocessing techniques to improve model performance by selecting, transforming, or creating new features from the data.
- Applications: Real-world applications of linear regression and classification algorithms across various domains such as finance, healthcare, and marketing.
Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning
Neural Networks & Deep Learning
**Exceptions can be made for rising 8th graders with relevant prior coding experience. Please contact us to discuss.**
July 29 - Aug 2 | Morning
The week is tailored for high school students eager to explore the cutting-edge realm of artificial intelligence (AI) through neural networks and deep learning. Throughout the week-long program, participants will dive into the fundamentals of neural networks, gaining experience in designing, training, and deploying deep learning models. By the end of the camp, students will be equipped with the knowledge and skills to tackle complex problems across various domains using AI techniques.
Participants will engage in interactive lectures, coding labs, and project-based activities, fostering a comprehensive understanding of neural networks and deep learning principles. By the end of the camp, students will be empowered to embark on their journey into the exciting field of AI with a solid foundation in deep learning techniques.
Technical Concepts
- Neural Networks Basics
- Understanding the biological inspiration behind artificial neural networks.
- Perceptron model and its architecture.
- Activation functions (e.g., sigmoid, ReLU) and their role in neural networks.
- Feedforward Neural Networks
- Structure and functionality of feedforward neural networks.
- Forward propagation of data through neural network layers.
- Loss functions (e.g., cross-entropy, mean squared error) for training neural networks.
- Deep Learning Architectures
- Fully connected Neural Networks for image classification and recognition
- Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs) for image classification and recognition.
- Recurrent Neural Networks (RNNs) for sequential data processing.
- Training Deep Learning Models
- Data preprocessing techniques, including normalization and data augmentation.
- Strategies for model validation and overfitting prevention (e.g., dropout, early stopping).
- Hyperparameter tuning to optimize model performance.
- Deep Learning Applications: Real-world applications of deep learning across diverse domains, such as computer vision, natural language processing, and autonomous systems.
- Frameworks and Tools
- Introduction to deep learning frameworks like TensorFlow.
- Hands-on coding exercises using Python to implement neural networks and train deep learning models.
Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning
Neural Networks, Deep Learning, and Basic Chatbots
**Exceptions can be made for rising 8th graders with relevant prior coding experience. Please contact us to discuss.**
Projects will be different from prior week, but will be more advanced. Attendance for the prior week is not necessary but recommended.
August 5 - 9 | Morning
Building upon previous knowledge, participants explore advanced deep learning techniques and venture into the realm of natural language processing (NLP) to create basic chatbots. They learn about recurrent neural networks (RNNs) and sequence-to-sequence models, applying them to develop conversational agents capable of understanding and generating human-like responses. By the end of the camp, students will not only understand the core concepts of AI and NLP but will also have practical experience in creating their own basic chatbots.
Technical Concepts
- Neural Networks and Deep Learning: Review of neural network architecture and activation functions. Review of deep learning fundamentals.
- Chatbot Development Basics
- Overview of chatbot architecture and components.
- Natural language understanding (NLU) techniques for extracting meaning from text.
- Response generation using rule-based and retrieval-based methods.
- Chatbot Implementation and Deployment: Hands-on experience in building a basic chatbot using Python and NLP libraries.
- Evaluation and Improvement
- Metrics for evaluating chatbot performance, including accuracy and user satisfaction.
- Iterative improvement strategies through user feedback and model fine-tuning.
Public Speaking
July 22 - 26 | Afternoon
The Public Speaking camp for high school students aims to equip participants with essential communication skills necessary for success in various settings. Through a combination of interactive workshops, practical exercises, and role-playing activities, students will develop proficiency in interviewing techniques, crafting elevator pitches, engaging in small talk, building and delivering presentations, and navigating conflicts. By the end of the week, students will have developed the leadership skills needed to thrive both inside and out of the classroom.
Interviewing Techniques | Explore different types of interviews, including informational and job interviews. | Learn strategies for effective communication, encompassing active listening and non-verbal cues. | Craft compelling responses to common interview questions, ensuring confidence in any professional setting. | Develop a thorough understanding of interview dynamics, preparing students for success in various professional contexts. |
---|---|---|---|---|
Elevator Pitches | Understand the purpose of elevator pitches and their significance in various situations. | Dive into the art of structuring pitches. | Learn to pitch yourself and request to stay connected with others. | Tailor pitches for different audiences or scenarios, providing a versatile skill set for future success. |
Small Talk & Conversations in Unfamiliar Social Settings | Importance of small talk in networking and social interactions | Initiating and sustaining conversations | Strategies for navigating unfamiliar social settings with confidence | Discussing current events as conversation starters |
Building/Delivering Presentations | Develop skills in planning and organizing presentation content effectively. | Explore the use of visual aids, including slides and props, to enhance communication. | Master techniques for engaging the audience through storytelling and humor, promoting effective and memorable presentations. | Overcome nervousness and deliver presentations with confidence and poise. |
Role-play Conflicts | Identify common sources of conflict in leadership roles. | Learn strategies for resolving conflicts and fostering collaboration. | Engage in role-playing exercises that simulate real-world leadership scenarios, providing practical experience in conflict resolution. | Understand and apply different leadership styles, fostering well-rounded and adaptable leaders. |
Why Pro Camps?
Pro Camps are for motivated students who are ready for a challenge in computer science or public speaking.
In Pro Coding Camps, students will take a deeper dive into JavaScript, Unity, Data Science, Artificial Intelligence, and Machine Learning with Python. Students will go beyond the basics, completing multiple mini projects throughout the week of camp. If your child has a high degree of persistence, self motivation and a hunger to learn advanced technology, they will thrive in this program.
After the AI/ML camps, students will have an option to join our Science Fair cohort where they will be guided on building Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning projects for the 2025 Science Fair.
In Pro Public Speaking Camp, students will gain the skills necessary to grow as a public speaker. They will work on confidently presenting and evolve as a leader. Our camp will intertwine leadership skills throughout the week to ensure that our students thrive in our program and outside of camp. If your child has a yearning to grow their leadership and presentation skills, they will succeed in this program.
Sign up for as many camps as you would like to take your coding & public speaking to the next level!
Logistics
Eligibility For All Pro Camps: Rising 9th and above. Exceptions are permitted for advanced middle schoolers with prior coding experience. Call us to discuss. If a student is under rising 9th grade, the student has to have pre-requisites as described in each camp.
ALL CODING PRO CAMPS ARE VIRTUAL. PUBLIC SPEAKING will be IN-PERSON. Students may visit the center (4200 McKee Road) and collaborate in the afternoon.
Pro Summer Camps Schedule
Mornings from 9 AM - 12 PM EST || Afternoons from 1 PM - 4 PM EST
Date | Morning - VIRTUAL | Afternoon - IN-PERSON |
---|---|---|
June 10 - 14 | Ultimate Gaming: Unity + JavaScript | |
June 24 - 28 | Python Data Science Basics | |
July 15 - 19 | AI: Linear Regression Classifications | |
July 22 - 26 | Public Speaking | |
July 29 - Aug 2 | AI: Neural networks & Deep Learning | |
August 5 - 9 | AI: Neural Networks, Deep Learning, and Basic Chatbots |
**Note: Limited Space Available. Register today to secure your spot.
Camps Pricing
Per Half-Day: $250 per week.
Virtual Camps only: If your child doesn't love it after Day 1, get 80% refund.
**Prices are subject to change**
View Full Schedule
Morning | Afternoon | |
---|---|---|
June 10 - 14 | Grades 1-2: Future Coder Grades 3-5: Coding with Roblox & Intro to AI Grades 6-9: Intro to AI & AI Infused Mobile Apps Grades 9+: Ultimate Gaming: Unity + JavaScript | Grades 1-2: Future Leader Grades 3-5 & 6-9: Public Speaking & Escape Rooms |
June 17 - 21 | Grades 1-2: Future Engineer Grades 3-5:Circuit Coding & Robot Building Grades 6-9: Python Game Design & Advanced Robotics | Grades 1-2: Future Designer Grades 3-5 & 6-9: Entrepreneurship & Stock Trading |
June 24 - 28 | Grades 1-2: Future Designer Grades 3-5: Web Design & 3D Printing Grades 6-9: Advanced Web Design with JavaScript & 3D Printing Grades 9+: Python Data Science Basics | Grades 1-2: Future Leader Grades 3-5 & 6-9: Leadership and Public Speaking & Escape Rooms |
July 1 - 3 | Grades 1-2: Future Coder Grades 3-5 & 6-9: Creative Coding and Digital Art | Grades 1-2: Future Scientist Grades 3-5 & 6-9: Astronauts and Engineers |
July 8 - 12 | Grades 1-2: Future Engineer Grades 3-5: Ultimate Game Design/Code & Robotics Grades 6-9: Robotics & Circuit Coding | Grades 1-2: Future Designer Grades 3-5 & 6-9: Escape Room & Public Speaking - Model UN |
July 15 - 19 | Grades 1-2: Future Coder Grades 3-5: Coding with Roblox & Intro to AI Grades 6-9: Intro to AI & AI Infused Mobile Apps Grades 9+: AI: Linear Regression & Classifications | Grades 1-2: Future Leader Grades 3-5 & 6-9: Detectives & Lawyers: Solving Mysteries and Mock Trial |
July 22 - 26 | Grades 1-2: Future Engineer Grades 3-5 & 6-9: Coding Mobile Apps & Robotics | Grades 1-2: Future Scientist Grades 3-5 & 6-9: Calling All Wizards: Science & Magic Grades 9+: Public Speaking |
July 29 - Aug 2 | Grades 1-2: Future Designer Grades 3-5 & 6-9: Design and Code Minecraft Mods Grades 9+: AI: Neural Networks & Deep Learning | Grades 1-2: Future Coder Grades 3-5 & 6-9: Creative Coding and Digital Art & 3D Printing |
Aug 5 - 9 | Grades 1-2: Future Designer Grades 3-5: Ultimate Game Design/Code (Intermediate) & Mobile Apps Grades 6-9: Ultimate Game Design/Code (Advanced) & Mobile Apps Grades 9+: AI: Neural Networks, Deep Learning, and Basic Chatbots | Grades 1-2: Future Scientist Grades 3-5 & 6-9: Secret Agent Science & Escape Rooms |
Aug 12 - 16 | Grades 1-2: Future Engineer Grades 3-5 & 6-9: Ultimate Engineering and Robotics | Grades 1-2: Future Leader Grades 3-5 & 6-9: Leadership and Public Speaking |
Thinking Feet’s main learning center is located in the Ballantyne/Mckee Road area in Mecklenburg county. We are just minutes away from nearby Blakeney, Weddington, Marvin, Waxhaw, Pineville, Wesley Chapel, Piper Glen and Fort Mill, SC.