Experiment in Architecture
A Summer Program for High School Students
2012 Sessions
Commuter: July 9 - July 20
Residential: July 22 - August 4
If you are finishing your sophomore or junior year of high school, and looking to the future, you may be interested in IIT’s summer architecture program: Experiment in Architecture. This two-week program is designed to introduce high school students to the profession of architecture.
In 2012, the Experiment in Architecture program will be offered in two sessions, with both commuter and residential versions available. The workshop will run from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. during the week (Monday--Friday).
"Experiment in Architecture"
Students will tour the city of Chicago, complete a series of design projects, and attend lectures by IIT faculty. The program is intended to inform students about the study and practice of architecture, and will assist participants in making an informed decision about pursuing an architectural education and career. All individuals interested in pursuing a career in the design and building professions are encouraged to attend.
Format
Experiment in Architecture is held in Illinois Institute of Technology’s College of Architecture buildings, including S. R. Crown Hall, a National Historic Landmark building. Teachers and students take advantage of Chicago as a dynamic laboratory of architectural speculation and discovery. Since enrollment is limited to 30 students, students can expect individual attention from their studio instructors.
Projects, Lectures and Seminars
The program includes field trips to Chicago's architectural landmarks and architectural offices, instruction in freehand sketching with an emphasis on interpreting and visualizing the world around us, studio classes with an emphasis on design through two-dimensional (2-D) representations and three-dimensional (3-D) constructions, and a session on developing and focusing career plans. The program concludes with an exhibition of student work and a reception for students and their families.
The work is rigorous and students will need to respond with enthusiasm and maturity. Each day includes a demanding schedule of projects. No prior expertise in drawing or model making is required.
Participants who complete the program are awarded certificates. Teachers keep records of performance and may write letters of recommendation as requested. The drawings and models that students produce can be used in application portfolios for college-level architecture programs.
Download Experiment in Architecture brochure (PDF)
View Experiment in Architecture blog
View 2011 Schedule of Activities
Cost
We are pleased to offer both a commuter and residential version of the Experiment in Architecture program.
The cost of the commuter program is $875. The program fee covers all studio materials, readings, and museum admission. The program will also provide CTA passes for use on our off-campus tours and office visits. Daily lunches will be provided either at our field trip site or at IIT’s Commons cafeteria.
A residential version of the program is available at a cost of $1,500. The additional cost includes a 13-night stay at an Illinois Institute of Technology residence hall and meals at the Commons cafeteria. Summer program staff will supervise residential participants and organize evening and weekend activities.
Financial aid is limited and available on the basis of demonstrated need. Please e-mail Sarah Pariseau at sparisea@iit.edu for more information.
Application Procedures
Please send us the following items together in ONE envelope to the address below:
1. Experiment in Architecture Application Form
2. Official high school transcript
3. Letter of recommendation (from a teacher or counselor)
4. Short essay of 250 words (one page, double-spaced) describing why you are interested in architecture and your goals for Experiment in Architecture
The application deadline for summer 2012 is April 1, 2012. All admission decisions will be made by May 15, 2012.
For more information, contact:
Sarah Pariseau
College of Architecture
S. R. Crown Hall
3360 South State Street
Chicago, IL 60616
(312) 567-3231
sparisea@iit.edu