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Wildcat Summer
Academy

A college experience designed for high school students

[[wildcat-summer-academy-date]]

Wildcat Summer
Academy

A college experience designed for high school students

Learn, connect, and grow

More Than a
Summer Camp

The Wildcat Summer Academy (WSA) aims to deliver a college-like experience to high school students on campus. WSA aims for students to experience dynamic learning and enriching social interactions in a supportive environment.

Students will develop new skills, engage with vibrant IWU faculty in exciting and thought-provoking ways, and explore their interests and passions alongside like-minded students from around the country.

In addition, students will have the opportunity to understand the Christian faith in the context of their specific area of interest and enjoy the opportunity for spiritual growth and development.

Questions?  765-677-2991  |  wildcatcamps@indwes.edu

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Why Attend?

A Week of Growth
& Discovery

Wildcat Summer Academy is more than a camp—it's an opportunity to experience college life before graduation. Spend a week living on campus, learning from passionate IWU faculty, building lasting friendships, and exploring your interests in a Christ-centered community. Watch this short video to see how Wildcat Summer Academy helps students discover their passions, grow in confidence, and create memories that last long after summer ends.

Camp Options

Art+Design Camp

Art+Design Camp

Create original artwork, experiment with new mediums, and showcase your work in a closing gallery exhibition.

Explore Art+Design Camp

E-Sports Camp

E-Sports Camp

Train with IWU's championship esports program while exploring gaming, teamwork, and careers in the esports industry.

Explore E-Sports Camp

Engineering Camp

Engineering Camp

Design, build, and test model structures while exploring the principles of civil engineering through hands-on projects.

Explore Engineering Camp

Examen (Theology & Ministry) Camp

Examen (Theology & Ministry) Camp

Explore worship leadership or ministry, earn college credit, and grow in your faith alongside other student leaders.

Explore Examen Camp

Forensic Science Camp

Forensic Science Camp

Investigate crime scenes, analyze evidence, and learn real forensic techniques from laboratory professionals.

Explore Forensic Science Camp

Music Therapy Camp

Music Therapy Camp

Discover how music promotes health and wellness through hands-on activities, role-playing, songwriting, and sessions led by board-certified music therapists.

Explore Music Therapy Camp

Nursing Camp

Nursing Camp

Practice nursing skills through simulations, CPR training, and hands-on experiences in IWU's nursing labs.

Explore Nursing Camp

Social Work Camp

Social Work Camp

Explore how social workers advocate for individuals and communities through hands-on experiences, service projects, and visits to local social service agencies.

Explore Social Work Camp

Teaching Camp

Teaching Camp

Discover how students learn while exploring brain science, inclusive education, and the calling of teaching.

Explore Teaching Camp

Summer Academy FAQs

Wildcat Summer Academy is open to high school students entering grades 9–12, as well as graduating seniors.

Students are invited to explore their interests, build new skills, and experience college life at Indiana Wesleyan University.

Wildcat Summer Academy takes place on the beautiful campus of Indiana Wesleyan University in Marion, Indiana.

Indiana Wesleyan University
4201 S. Washington Street
Marion, IN 46953

Time Activity
8:00 AM Breakfast
9:00 AM Academic Camps
11:30 AM Lunch
1:00 PM Academic Camps (Cont.)
5:00 PM Dinner
6:30 PM The Gathering
7:30 PM Evening Activities
10:00 PM Head to Dorms
11:00 PM Lights Out
Do Bring:
  • Great attitude
  • Open heart to the Lord
  • Excitement to learn
  • Desire to make new friends

and in your suitcase…

  • Personal toiletry items
  • Bath towels, hand towel & hand soap
  • Swim suit
  • Pillow and sleeping bag OR linens/blanket for twin XL bed
  • Comfortable, casual clothes and shoes. Tennis shoes & jeans (long pants) for Engineering, Forensic & Nursing Camps (no open toe shoes for lab days.)
  • Bible
  • Pen/Notebook
  • *Optional: Money for snacks or campus store
  • *Optional: Umbrella

Please DO NOT bring the following:

  • Laptops, tablets, and other electronic devices*
  • Weapons of any kind (e.g. firearms, knives/pocket knives, etc.)

*Cell phones are welcome, but please note they should be silent and out of sight when campers are in rehearsals, class, lessons, etc.

Eligible Indiana students may be awarded partial/full Wildcat Summer Academy Camp scholarship.

Interested students may have a school counselor, teacher, mentor, or caregiver complete a scholarship application on their behalf. 

Please contact the camp staff to receive the Scholarship Application. 

765-677-2991 | wildcatcamps@indwes.edu

Yes! Wildcat Summer Academy is a residential experience where students stay in Indiana Wesleyan University's residence halls from Sunday through Friday. Campers enjoy meals on campus, participate in evening activities, and experience what it's is like to live on a college campus while being supervised by trained staff.
No. Most camps welcome students with a genuine interest in the subject, whether they're exploring it for the first time or looking to build on existing skills. Faculty and staff create an engaging learning environment where every student is encouraged to grow.
Student safety is a top priority. Campers are supervised throughout the week by IWU faculty, staff, and trained camp leaders during classes, meals, residence hall time, and evening activities. Parents can feel confident knowing students are supported in a safe, welcoming campus environment.
Lauren Schneider

Meet the Director

Lauren is the Director of the Academic Youth Program and brings 15+ years of experience in camp leadership. She has served as a counselor, head counselor, and activities director, planning and leading programs for students from elementary through high school. With a background in teaching and ministry, Lauren is passionate about creating positive, well-organized experiences where students can learn, grow, and connect in meaningful ways.

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