CiV Summer Scholars
2026 registration is open
Whether you’re already dreaming of becoming an architect or just curious about how buildings come together, this camp is your chance to explore, create, and have a seriously fun time doing it. Offered each summer in collaboration with the University of Memphis’ Department of Architecture, the weeklong camp will introduce high school students to a career in architecture through hands-on projects, office visits, visiting lecturers, and building tours. This opportunity is open to Grades 9-12 and Rising College Freshmen Registration is limited to 20 participants and will fill up early!
The Summer Scholars Institute is aligned with AIA’s mission to promote a more inclusive workforce with early outreach to potential architects and shape the future of our profession.
2026 Program Details
Stone in Traditional and Modern Architecture
Spend your summer building something unforgettable – starting with your creativity.
This program is open to high school students (Grades 9–12) and rising college Freshmen.
Civ Summer Scholars invites you to dive into the world of design through one of its oldest and most enduring materials: stone. You’ll discover how stone details are far more than decoration: they tell stories, solve technical challenges, and shape the character of buildings across time. From historic landmarks to modern designs, you’ll explore how architects have used stone for centuries and how it continues to evolve today.
But this isn’t just about learning, it’s about doing. You’ll sketch and design your own masonry details, gaining insight into how ideas become real-world structures. Step inside a working architecture firm to see how professionals bring designs to life and go behind the scenes on a field trip to a local manufacturer to understand how materials are crafted.
And yes, you’ll get your hands dirty (in the best way possible way: through hands-on workshops, you’ll learn how to cut and shape stone yourself, connecting design, material, and craft in a way few experiences can offer.
Whether you’re already dreaming of becoming an architect or just curious about how buildings come together, this camp is your chance to explore, create, and have a seriously fun time doing it.
Participants will gain valuable experience by sketching and designing masonry details, touring an active architecture firm, and taking a field trip to a local material manufacturer. Most importantly, they will step away from screens to cut and shape real stone alongside industry professionals.
Space is strictly limited to 20 participants. For inquiries, contact Justin at justin@aiamemphis.org.
Thank you for helping us champion the power of design in West Tennessee!
Dates: July 13–17, 2026
Time: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM daily
Location: Jones Hall, Department of Architecture, University of Memphis
Registration Fee: $250