Summer camps offer an enriching environment for students to explore new interests, develop skills, and make lifelong friends. For deaf and hard-of-hearing students, there are specialized programs that provide tailored experiences, emphasizing communication, accessibility, and community. Here is a comprehensive guide to some of the most prominent college-based summer camps designed for deaf and hard-of-hearing youth.

1. Explore Your Future (EYF) at RIT/NTID

Location: Rochester Institute of Technology/National Technical Institute for the Deaf (RIT/NTID), Rochester, NY

Overview: Explore Your Future (EYF) is a summer program for deaf and hard-of-hearing high school students, providing a glimpse into college life and potential career paths. The program includes hands-on workshops in fields like engineering, health sciences, business, and more. Students also get to experience campus life by staying in residence halls and participating in recreational activities.

Highlights:

  • Hands-on workshops in various disciplines
  • Experience living on a college campus
  • Networking opportunities with faculty and current students
  • Personal growth and leadership development

Application Info: Interested students can apply online through the EYF application page. Scholarships are available for qualifying students.

Website: Explore Your Future at RIT/NTID

2. Discover College and Careers (DC²) at Gallaudet University

Location: Gallaudet University, Washington, D.C.

Overview: The Discover College and Careers (DC²) program is designed for deaf and hard-of-hearing students entering grades 10-12. This camp offers unique self-discovery activities and career exploration opportunities, helping students identify their interests and potential career paths.

Highlights:

  • Career exploration workshops
  • College readiness activities
  • Interaction with faculty and current students
  • Experience living on the Gallaudet University campus

Website: Discover College and Careers at Gallaudet University

3. Immerse Into ASL at Gallaudet University

Location: Gallaudet University, Washington, D.C.

Overview: Immerse Into ASL is a program that allows deaf and hard-of-hearing students entering grades 10-12 to expand their American Sign Language (ASL) skills and learn more about Deaf culture and history. The program offers both beginner and intermediate levels, making it accessible to a wide range of students.

Highlights:

  • ASL skill development
  • Lessons in Deaf culture and history
  • Opportunities for both deaf and hearing students
  • Experience campus life at Gallaudet

Website: Immerse Into ASL at Gallaudet University

4. GenCyber at Gallaudet University

Location: Gallaudet University, Washington, D.C.

Overview: GenCyber is a camp designed to introduce students to information technology and cybersecurity. This program is perfect for students interested in pursuing careers in tech fields, offering hands-on experience and foundational knowledge in cybersecurity.

Highlights:

  • Introduction to IT and cybersecurity
  • Hands-on activities and projects
  • Interaction with professionals in the field
  • Preparation for future tech careers

Website: GenCyber at Gallaudet University

5. Got Skills? at Gallaudet University

Location: Gallaudet University, Washington, D.C.

Overview: The Got Skills? camp focuses on enhancing team-building, leadership, and sports skills for deaf and hard-of-hearing students entering grades 7-9. This program helps younger students develop essential life skills in a fun and supportive environment.

Highlights:

  • Team-building and leadership exercises
  • Sports and recreational activities
  • Skill development workshops
  • Experience living on campus

Website: Got Skills? at Gallaudet University

6. Deaf Youth Pride Camp at Gallaudet University

Location: Gallaudet University, Washington, D.C.

Overview: Deaf Youth Pride Camp is for deaf and hard-of-hearing students entering grades 9-12 who identify as part of the LGBTQIA+ community. The camp focuses on self-advocacy, leadership, and community building, providing a safe and inclusive environment for all participants.

Highlights:

  • Advocacy and leadership training
  • Community-building activities
  • Supportive and inclusive environment
  • Focus on LGBTQIA+ issues within the Deaf community

Website: Deaf Youth Pride Camp at Gallaudet University

Conclusion

These specialized summer programs provide invaluable experiences for deaf and hard-of-hearing students, helping them explore career paths, develop new skills, and prepare for their future. By offering a supportive and accessible environment, these camps empower students to achieve their full potential and build a strong sense of community.

For more information and to apply, visit the respective program websites and take the first step towards an enriching summer experience.