Summer Engineering Experience for International Undergraduate Students
The Padnos College of Engineering invites you to an on-campus, residential summer camp for international undergraduate engineering students. A hands-on, design & build, project-based learning experience, paired with cultural exploration and community engagement.
Program Highlights
You will:
- work in teams to solve real-world challenges in emerging areas like sustainability and healthcare technology.
- have the opportunity for technical upskilling in embedded programming, solid modeling, and advanced manufacturing.
- engage with local industry & community via industry and museum tours, cultural exploration, guest speakers, and a final showcase of projects.
- network with domestic students and faculty, fostering intercultural friendships and building networks.
- explore Graduate Education options at GVSU since all participants will
- earn a GVSU Graduate Badge in Project-Based Learning (anticipated May 2026),
- earn graduate credit towards the Masters of Science in Engineering degree via Prior Learning Assessment (1 credit), and
- be eligible for full Graduate Assistantship positions to pursue an MSE degree at GVSU - 2 GAs will be reserved for eligible summer camp participants.
Program Goals
This comprehensive program provides a valuable opportunity for undergraduate engineering students to gain meaningful experience, develop essential skills, and prepare for future success in a supportive and stimulating environment.
Upon completion of the program, students will:
- Gain practical experience and deepen their knowledge about the engineering design process.
- Develop valuable transferable skills crucial for academic and professional success.
- Build a strong network of peers, mentors, and professionals.
- Enhance their understanding of design methodology and ethical practices.
- Make informed decisions about their post-graduation plans, whether pursuing further education or entering the workforce.
Program Logistics
Dates: 22nd June, 2026 - 1st July, 2026
Eligibility: Any student enrolled in an Engineering Bachelor's program.
Program Fee: $1,800/student.
- To be paid within a week of admission to the program. Fully refundable if student is unable to get a visa - proof of visa rejection required.
- Includes room and board, tuition and supplies, cultural and educational trips, letter of invitation, final reception, and graduation.
- Rooms are double occupancy in a university dormitory.
- Airfare, and the visa application fee are NOT covered in the program fee.
Application: Online form with unofficial transcripts and institutional bona fide certificate.
Laker Engineering Summer Program FAQ
We highly recommend new students fly into Grand Rapids airport: Gerald R. Ford International, code GRR. Flying into a larger airport such as Chicago or Detroit and then taking public transportation is not recommended.
The Grand Rapids airport is small with a helpful information desk, only 5 baggage carousels, and taxi services on-site.
We highly recommend purchasing Travel Insurance.
Suggested Airport Transportation Options
- a local taxi company such as Metro Cab (616) 827-6500 or Yellow Cab (616) 459-4646 (cost varies, review cash and card options)
- a transport app such as Uber or Lyft (cost varies - need to download in advance, review cash and card options)
- A trusted local resource V's Anytime chauffeur service LLC, 616-406-9664
Buses and trains are not an option from the Grand Rapids airport. Please be prepared by booking your transportation to your accommodation in advance or waiting for a taxi upon arrival.
We will hold an onboarding session via zoom on Monday, June 1st to answer any questions regarding travel to campus and the program. Stay tuned!
For any other information, reach out to Dr Samhita Rhodes at [email protected].
Your program fees ($1,800/person) will cover
- tuition and supplies,
- room and board including on-campus breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and a linen package
- industry and cultural excursions
- campus buses from the Valley to the City campus each day
Costs not included are
- Airfare
- Visa application fees
- Taxi to and from GRR airport (~ $45 - $55 for an UBER Comfort ride)
- Personal expenditure (souvenirs, additional excursions)
Draft Schedule
|
Day & Date |
Activity |
|---|---|
|
Sunday, 6/21 |
Arrival and Check-in, housing assigned on Valley Campus 4:00 pm Welcome Reception, City Campus |
|
Monday 6/22 - Thursday 6/25 |
9:00 am - 11:30 am Lecture 11:30 am - 12:30 pm Lunch 12:30 pm - 3:00 pm Team meetings and team build time |
|
Friday, 6/26 & Saturday, 6/27 |
Cultural experience and excursions Industry tours |
|
Sunday, 6/28 |
Break |
|
Monday, 6/29 - Tuesday, 6/30 |
9:00 am - 11:30 am Lecture 11:30 am - 12:30 pm Lunch 12:30 pm - 3:00 pm Team meetings and team build time |
|
Wednesday, 7/1 |
10:00 am - noon: Final Project Showcase Noon - 1:30 pm Award ceremony and Lunch |
|
Tuesday, 7/2 |
Check-out |