Southern Oregon University : Pre-College/Youth Programs

Pre-College/Youth Programs

Summer Youth Programs

Hot Classes

Exciting Summer Classes for Kids Ages 7 through 18

Registration is available for 2009 classes. Click here to register.

Below are Hot Classes for 2009.

Art
College Prep
Computers/Video/Film
Dance/Music/Theater
Language/Culture/Creative Writing
Recreations and Sports
Science/Strategy Games/Engineering

View Instructor Bios

ART

Animal Artworks!

Let your imagination take you to the animal kingdom as you experiment with a variety of drawing and painting media, including colored pencils, ink, and pastels. Come learn to draw your favorite animal while having fun.
Ages 6–8, August 3-7, M–F, 10:00 am–Noon
Instructor: Craig Honeycutt
Location: Marion Ady 101
Course No: 300043 Fee: $99

Ceramics: Wheeling Away with Clay

Take part in this intensive ceramics program for young people. Individual instruction lets you develop at your own pace. Learn wheel, hand-building, and glaze techniques, then fire your work using low-fire electric stoneware or raku processes.
Section A: July 6–10, M–F, 9:00 am–noon, ages 7–11
Section B: July 6–10, M–F, 1:00–4:00 pm, ages 12–17
Section C: August 17–21, M–F, 9:00 am–noon, ages 7–11
Section D: August 17–21, M–F, 1:00–4:00 pm, ages 12–17
Instructors: Wataru Sugiyama and Claudia Michelli
Location: CVA Ceramics Lab
Course No: 300008 Fee: $139 per session

Comic and Manga Illustration

Color your world! Come use professional markers, watercolors, and colored pencils to learn new ways to color and shade your favorite characters. You will use your own designs and images, whether it’s Manga or other forms of cartooning, and learn ways to make them come alive.
Ages 11–14, July 6–10, M–F, 1:00–4:00 pm
Instructor: Craig Honeycutt
Location: Marion Ady 102
Course No: 300052 Fee: $139

Mexican Art Adventures

Explore the history of modern Mexican Art in the studio painting class. You will learn all about famous Mexican artists such as Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera and Fresco. Spend time drawing and painting while you learn about oil and egg tempera fresco painting techniques to make your own wonderful works of art.
Ages 9-13, August 10-14, 1:00-3:00 pm
Instructor: Amy Godard
Location: Marion Ady 102
Course No: 300055 Fee: $99

COLLEGE PREP

College Prep Institute

Come learn what getting into college is all about. This college preparation program provides you with effective test-taking strategies and test preparation skills to help you succeed on the SATs. A college essay seminar provides an opportunity for you to learn the components of an effective college admissions essay. An evening parent seminar will focus on timetables, evaluating colleges, applications, finances, and applying for scholarships.
Ages 14-18, August 3-7, M-F, 9:00 am-noon
Instructors: Jenny Welburn and a team of qualified instructors who have experience preparing students for college.
Location: Taylor 228
Course No: 320004 Fee: $195

COMPUTERS / VIDEO / FILM

Advanced Garageband

This is not your Dad’s band in the garage—it’s the awesome music creation software from Apple. You will learn the the advanced techniques of GarageBand, a program that has 1000 prerecorded loops, tracks for live recordings and effects like reverb and panning. Note: Prior Garageband skills required.
Ages 10-15, June 29-July 3, M-F, 12:30-2:30 pm
Instructor: Rick Shaw
Location: Ashland Middle School, WAMS Room.
Course No: 330013 Fee: $99

Awesome Computer Animation

Take animation to the next level with Flip Boom, a fun, easy to use and creative software tool designed to create animation in seconds. Based on traditional animation principles, Flip Boom sets the imagination free while you learn notions of timing and motion.
Ages 10-15, August 17-21, M-F, 12:30-2:30 pm
Instructor: Rick Shaw
Location: Ashland Middle School
Course No: 330026 Fee: $99

Claymation/Animation

Explore the world of object and clay animation. Using colorful modeling clay, create wild and funny, imaginary or real life characters with settings for your stories. You will be using "stop-action" animation and learn basic camera techniques and composition to help express your story visually.
Section A: July 6-10, M-F, 9:00 am-noon, ages 9-13
Section B: August 10-14, M-F, 9:00am-noon, ages 9-13
Instructor: Samar Dawisha
Location: Marion Ady 102
Course No. 330008 Fee: $139

Creative Camcorder Techniques

Learn how to use film and television broadcast techniques with your video camera to improve the look of your movies. Using the simple tricks that professionals, know, you will improve the quality of your work and learn to see movies like you've never seen them before. Learn about opposite shots, dollies, tracking and much more. Take your video skills to the next level. NOTE: Bring your own video camera if you have one.
Ages 10-15, June 29-July 3, M-F, 10:00 am- Noon
Instructor: Rick Shaw
Location: Ashland Middle School
Course No: 330027 Fee: $99

Editing Your Movie

Calling all ambitious film makers! Take your digital filmmaking skills to the next level. Create your own special effects and discover hidden tips and tricks to give your movie a professional look using Final Cut Pro4. You will complete your complex transitions and effects at the pro level. This powerful application will help you take your summer movies and turn it into a future award winning production.
Ages 10-15, June 22-26, M-F, 12:30-2:30 pm
Instructor: Rick Shaw
Location: Ashland Middle School
Course No: 330017
Fee: $99

Making Your Summer Movie

Learn about scriptwriting software, easy lighting, camera techniques that the pros use, and ways to audition your cast. Create the shots that will make your movie stand out. Beginning and experienced moviemakers are welcome.
Ages 10–15, June 15–19, M–F, 12:30–2:30 pm
Instructor: Rick Shaw
Location: Ashland Middle School
Course No: 330016 Fee: $99

Tech Week

Technology “rocks” your everyday world, from podcasts and XBOX 360s to the latest Nike shoes and the RFID in your cereal box. Come explore this exciting field and learn to navigate your technical world. Blend art and entertainment with technology by using multimedia programs to create eye- and ear-catching photos, audio, and videos. Build a robot using Lego Mindstorm kits and map your location from space and “geocache” your terrestrial coordinates around SOU’s campus using a GPS (Global Positioning System) as your guide.
Ages 9–13, August 17-21, M–F, 9:00 am–noon
Instructor: Robert Luaders
Location: Britt 251
Course No: 330003 Fee: $139

Techniques of Video Production

Look out Hollywood—here you come! You will create a story, shoot the video, and go through the editing process using remote techniques. Also visit a local recording studio.
Ages 12–16, August 17-21, M–F, 1:00–4:00 pm
Instructor: Brandon Givens
Location: Britt 251
Course No: 330020 Fee: $139

DANCE / MUSIC / THEATRE

Conservatory for Young Theatre Artists,
Camelot Theatre Company (CTC)

This exciting camp is designed to introduce the young artist to improvisation, basic vocal and acting techniques, dance, and Shakespeare. Working with professional artists, you will combine classes with rehearsals for a performance of select material guaranteed to move you forward as a developing artist.
Ages 7–17, August 17–21, M–F, 9:00 am–4:00 pm
Instructors: Livia Genise, Laura Derocher, Audrey Flint, and Karl Iverson are all associated with the popular Camelot Theatre in Talent, Oregon.
Location: Black Box
Course No: 340003 Fee: $239

Much Ado About Shakespeare

Come bring the written word to life through the works of the world’s greatest playwright, William Shakespeare. You will participate in acting games and exercises, physical games and techniques, dance, improvisation, stage combat, and much more. Explore the history of Shakespeare’s life and work with actors from the Oregon Shakespeare Festival (OSF). Tour OSF on the final day.
Ages 8–12, August 10–14, M–F, 9:00–11:00 am
Instructor: Annette Lewis
Location: Campbell E
Course No: 340030 Fee: $99

LANGUAGE / CULTURE / CREATIVE WRITING

Chinese Language and Culture

Come and get a jump start on learning Chinese and have fun doing it. You and will be introduced to a new language and culture, while building your vocabulary through interactive and entertaining exercises, illustrated conversations, and fun activities.
Ages 8–12, June 15–19, M–F, 9:00–11:00 am
Instructor: Zhagang Frisbee
Location: Taylor 132
Course No: 350014 Fee: $99

Culinary Creations, Summer Inspirations

Experience a variety of cooking techniques as you learn to create delicious snacks and meals. Augment your repertoire with ideas and recipes from cuisines enjoyed around the world. You will measure and mix ingredients while using a variety of cooking tools and machines as you learn the basics of “kitchenology.” All levels of cooking experience welcome.
Ages 10–15, August 10-14, M–F, 10:00 am–noon
Instructor: Marilyn D. Moore
Location: Cascade Dining Hall
Course No: 350012 Fee: $109

I Love Chocolate!

Come and join fellow “chocoholics” and learn all about your favorite treat. You will learn about the folklore, history, science and nutritional benefits of chocolate. Make delicious chocolate desserts with Chef Marilyn Moore. Learn the story behind Dagoba and sample a few of their treasures.
Ages 8-12, Date August 24-28, M-F, 10:00 am-Noon
Instructor: Marilyn D. Moore
Location: Cascade Dining Hall
Course No: 350013 Fee: $109

Getting Published! Teen Writing

Ever wanted to see your name in print? Whether you write stories, essays, poetry, or reviews, there are hundreds of venues for teen writers. You’ll learn what publications look for materials by teens, how to write great query letters, and how to refine a piece for publication.

Ages 13-18, July 20-24, M—F, 9:00-11:00 am
Instructor: Julie Inada and Christy Raedeke
Location: Library 117
Course No: 360014 Fee: $99

RECREATION / SPORTS

Adventure Fitness

Quick feet on the stairs, core strength, relay races, ladders, hurdles and obstacle courses are part of this fitness adventure. You will learn your capabilities and challenge your unlimited potential. Be ready to move as you participate in fitness through fun.
Ages 11-14, June 29-July 3, M–F, 9:00–11:00 am
Instructor: Dana Yearsley
Location: PE 115
Course No: 370035 Fee: $99

Fantastic Fencing

Steel rings on steel—away you go into the fascinating world of swordplay. Safe inside a mask and jacket, you will be introduced to the exciting sport of fencing. Learn the skills of touching (scoring on) your partner, while avoiding being scored on, as well as learning the respect, ethics, and camaraderie involved in this sport. En guard . . . ready . . . fence! Note: All equipment supplied.
Section A: June 15-19, M–F, 11:00 am-12:30 pm, ages 8–12
Section B: July 13-17, M–F, 9:00–10:30 am, ages 13–18
Section C: August 10-14, M–F, 9:00–10:30 pm, ages 10–14
Instructor: Roxanne Miftahittin
Location: PE 132 (Dance Room)
Course No: 370032 Fee: $89 per session

Junior Golf Institute

What can be better than golf in the summer! Join in this ‘swinging’ class designed for beginning and intermediate players. Practice your swing, chip, and putt as you learn etiquette and rules. Start learning how to play like your golf heroes! Note: All equipment is included in the class fee.
Section A: Ages 7-12, July 6-10, M–F, 5:00-6:00 pm, Centennial Golf Club, Medford, Instructor: Vince Domenzain
Section B: Ages 7-12, August 3–7, M–F, 9:00-10:00 am, Oak Knoll Golf Club, Ashland
Course No: 370026 Fee: $69

Junior Tennis Institute

Time to hit the courts! Join in these fun classes designed for beginning and intermediate players. Practice your strokes and serving technique, as well as learning etiquette and rules. Find out how to play like your tennis heroes! Beginning and intermediate players welcome. Note: All equipment is included in the class fee.
Ages 13–17, August 10–14, M–F, 9:00–10:30 am
Instructor: Dana Yearsley
Location: McNeal Tennis Courts
Course No: 370027 Fee: $89

Ultimate Sports

Discover the skills you’ll need to be successful at rock-climbing, ultimate frisbee, lacrosse and many other thrill-seeking sports! Don’t forget to bring a great attitude and you are guaranteed to have a ton of fun.
Ages 9-13, June 29-July 3, M-F, 1:00-3:00 pm
Instructor: Dana Yearlsey
Location: PE 115
Course No: 370013 Fee: $99

SCIENCE / STRATEGY GAMES / ENGINEERING

Camp Lego Robotics

Have fun as you construct Legos all week. Work in pairs to solve challenges by building and programming robots using the Lego Mindstorm equipment. You will learn mechanical and software design, problem-solving and teamwork skills. Then build Lego racecars, structures using many kinds of legos and create a mini movie as you learn Lego animation tricks and techniques.
Ages 9-13, July 6-10, M-F, 1:00 pm-4:00 pm
Instructor: Cynthia Hewitt
Location: Campbell D
Course No: 390023 Fee: $139

Forensic Science

If you enjoy CSI, then you will love this class! Dig a little deeper as a crime scene investigator. Learn actual forensic science techniques such as forensic anthropology, computer forensics, ballistics, drug and poison analysis, blood analysis, forensic pathology, forensic entomology, hair and fiber analysis, criminal profiling, evidence collection, and more.
Ages 11–14, August 10–14, M–F, 9:00 am–noon
Instructor: Cynthia Hewitt
Location: Campbell D
Course No: 380049 Fee: $139

Lithia Park Scavenger Hunts

Do you love a treasure hunt in a beautiful setting? Come learn about the trees, water, flowers and animals in Lithia Park. After each scavenger hunt you will write and draw in your personalized “Lithia Park Journal” and still have time to play at the park.
Ages 6-8, July 20-24, M-F, 9:00-11:00 am
Instructor: Laurie Hayden
Location: Lithia Park
Course No: 380057 Fee: $99

Oregon-ic Farming Fun

Dig into farming this summer at Eagle Mill Farm in Ashland or Dunbar Farms in Medford. Learn how to grow your own food and care for the earth at the same time. You will experience aspects of sustainable farming from soil preparation and seed planting to harvesting and cooking! Make lunch each day from food you harvest at the farm. Learn to make pickles, save seed and eat locally year round. Note: Lunch is included in the fee.
Section A: July 6-10, M–F, 9:00 am-noon, ages 7-12, Eagle Mill Farm, Ashland
Section B: August 24-28, M–F, 9:00 am-noon, ages 7-12, Dunbar Farms, Medford
Instructor: Melina Barker
Course No: 380058 Fee: $149

Super Slimy Science

This class is oozing with fun! In this hands-on gooey class, you will explore the science of really gross things like sticky slime. You’ll look at what animals make and do to help them survive—things that make us say “Yuck!” You will make slime, use microscopes, explore the creepy and crawly, and have a squishy good time!
Ages 6–8, July 27–31, M–F, 1:00–3:00 pm
Instructor: Claudia Michelli
Location: Campbell C
Course No: 380031 Fee: $99

Vet Med Camp

Come explore the world of veterinary medicine. You will learn behavior training and the basics of the care and handling of a variety of animals. Explore the different professions in animal welfare and what it takes to become one yourself. A variety of professionals will visit the class for an “ask the expert” and activity session. You will also visit a local veterinary clinic to spend “a day in the life” of a veterinarian.
Section A: July 13-17, M–F, 9:00 am–11:00 am, ages 10-16
Section B: August 10–14, M–F, 1:00 pm-3:00 pm, ages 9–13
Instructor: Sarah Swanson
Location: Campbell E
Course No: 380051 Fee: $99

Young Medics

Get your hands on healthcare as you learn about the intriguing world of medicine. You will learn basic human anatomy and physiology as you learn what it’s like to be a doctor or a nurse. You will be introduced to Sim Man, a high fidelity human patient simulator and you will have the opportunity to practice with a variety of auditory simulators to gain an understanding of health assessment techniques.
Ages 11-14, July 20-24, 10:00 am-Noon
Instructor: Dr. Stephanie Sideras
Location: OHSU Nursing Lab at SOU
Course No: 380059 Fee: $99