SnowCode 2016

Snow College Hosts Code Camp for High School Students

Ephraim, UT – Snow College hosted its first ever computer software coding camp June 9-11 for high school age students interested in website design, game programming, and computer programming. 

The camp was free and was open to students grade 9 through 12. Fifty-four students registered from central Utah and the Wasatch Front to attend camps held on both the Richfield and Ephraim campuses. The code camp was created in partnership with Central Region CTE Pathways, a program geared towards helping high school students earn college credit and putting them on the fast track to college. Each of the three days had a theme: 3D design and printing, game development, and website design.  The courses were taught by current Snow College computer science students, under the supervision of faculty members Kristal Ray, Professor of Computer Science, and Garth Sorenson, Department Chair for Engineering and Computer Science.  Each student was able to print with the 3D printer, take home a simple game design they created and saved a copy of the website they designed for the class.

“We wanted these kids to have a real sense of accomplishment when they completed the camp,” said Professor Ray. “They learned so much in only three days. The students put in a lot of work and they can now go home and say, ‘Look what I did!’”

Students traveling from longer distances were invited to stay in Snow College housing, and the three day camp also included evening activities including a movie party and game night.  Steve Hood, Vice President for Academic Affairs, said, “We commend students, parents, and faculty for their involvement with this camp.  This is the kind of experience that will pique interest, build skills, and enable the State to meet the growing demands for STEM students.  It was a successful inaugural experience, and we look forward to next year’s event.”

Due to the high demand and eager participation at the camp, the college plans to host camps next summer with the intent to grow as needed.