A new summer program for girls that blends the world of information technology with outdoor fun is set for June 10-15 at Western Carolina University.
Sponsored by the Division of Continuing Education and Summer School and the College of Business at WCU, techTrek is a summer program for middle-school girls that explores a wide range of information technologies in a hands-on, risk-free environment. Activities will include taking apart and rebuilding computers, setting up a simple PC network, developing Web pages, writing computer programs and learning various software programs.
“Research continues to show that girls are less likely to choose computer-based careers than boys. The single-gender format provides an atmosphere in which each girl can discover her own talents,” said Lynn Heinrichs, techTrek program administrator and associate professor of business computer information systems at WCU.
The summer program is supported by the facilities on the WCU campus. Electronic classrooms and specialized labs for networking and multimedia development will provide campers with a complete array of technological resources. Campers also will meet women with ties to the field of information technology, including female mentors in computer-based careers, specially trained counselors with interest in computer-related fields and WCU faculty.
When it’s time to relax, campers can enjoy a picnic near the creek, a hike in the woods, a campfire and marshmallow roast, a visit to a local outdoor site or a friendly soccer competition.
Campers will arrive on Sunday, June 10, before dinner and depart on Friday, June 15, after lunch. The $395 tuition includes housing, meals, supplies, and admission to special events.
Registration deadline is May 25, but registrations that are completed and paid by May 1 will receive a 10 percent discount. For more information, call (828) 227-7397 or (800) 928-4968.
