SUMMER 2024 ENROLLMENT IS NOW CLOSED.
OUR 2025 PROGRAM SCHEDULE WILL BE ANNOUNCED IN OCTOBER 2024.

Participants will operate in both academic and real-world settings: a learning-through-making workshop series, an architecture firm visit, and a tour of an active construction site. An ‘I See Me’ lunch and learn series features conversations with a diverse cross-section of UVA alumni, faculty, and students. All youth participants will have access to dedicated workspace in our studio environment with appropriate safety orientation to our robust Fabrication Lab. Each program session culminates in a celebratory exhibit with food, families, and friends.

OUR MISSION

To provide memorable learning experiences and positive impact through youth, community, and UVA student-centered objectives:

YOUTH-CENTERED

• Activate creative minds, build community, and empower youth through hands-on learning in immersive environments.

• Raise awareness of career pathways within the design professions through career connections and real-world experiences.

• Foster a sense of belonging for first-generation and underrepresented youth

COMMUNITY-CENTERED

• Raise design awareness and represent UVA and the School of Architecture as a positive and inspiring presence to high schools, youth, and families.

• Contribute to state and local education initiatives in career-learning and provide equitable access to quality STEM/STEAM education.

UVA STUDENT-CENTERED 

• Establish community engaged learning coursework, student assistant positions, and summer teaching fellowships for current School of Architecture students pursuing a career in design education.

Design Discovery seeks to provide a meaningful and transformative experience to high school students through engaged, hands-on learning. The program invites youth to be empowered by seeing their ideas come to life through design thinking and making.

SUMMER 2024 PROGRAM DATES + TIMES 

• Session 1: Monday June 10 – Saturday June 15, 9am - 4pm 

• Session 2: Monday June 24 – Saturday June 29, 9am - 4pm

PROGRAM LOCATION

We will begin and end each day at the UVA School of Architecture’s Campbell Hall (110 Bayly Drive, Charlottesville), taking advantage of our building's studio space, FabLab, and design software. Programming will include visits to locations in Charlottesville and across UVA Grounds. Dormitory options are available for non-local participants.