Minnesota Summer Camp Locations Summer Camps: Macalester College Computer Camps
Macalester College Computer Camps
- Camp Overview
- About This U & Maps
- Staff Ratio Guarantee
- Safety & Peace of Mind
- Sample Week
- In the News
- Testimonials
- FAQ
Computer Camps Held at Macalester College
iD Tech Camps, Ages 7-17WEEKLONG | CO-ED | DAY CAMPS | OVERNIGHT CAMPS
COURSE TOPICS: VIDEO GAME DESIGN, PROGRAMMING, APPS, WEB DESIGN & MOREIgnite your internalDrive and do something BIG this summer! iD Tech Camps is a family company – and our company is a unique place. Some call it magical. We’re the World’s #1 Tech Camp – consistently ranked a Top Workplace. One of our big secrets? Ridiculously small ratios. Small ratios mean personalized instruction – just 8 students per instructor or fewer, guaranteed! Our adult-only staff are tech-savvy undergraduates, graduate students and professionals, passionate about teaching game design, film, computer science and more.
This is our 10th season hosting summer camps in the Minneapolis St. Paul area and our 7th season at Macalester College. We strike the right balance between off-computer activities (creative games, sports, life skills, etc.) and essential technology education to foster STEM skill development (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics). Our popular Macalester College summer day camps and overnight camps are located in St. Paul, MN.
We offer a variety of cutting-edge summer camp courses for beginner through advanced learners. Kids and teens learn one course topic per week, specializing in video game design, iPhone® app development, programming, video editing and more – using the best brand name products from Adobe®, Apple®, Autodesk®, Google, Microsoft® and beyond. Come explore the college campus and gain skills that will last long after summer camp ends. Continue to Step 2 for Course Availability, Tuition & Dates.
About Macalester College
NOTE: Looking for our exact location on campus? You must first be enrolled; you can then access that information through My Account. Not yet enrolled? Go to Step 2 to enroll. The maps included here are for general information only.
Many students use their summer camp experience with iD Tech Camps to explore colleges that they’re interested in attending in the future. Learn on campus, eat in the dining halls and ages 10+ can even stay overnight (at most campuses).
iD Tech Camps is excited to be hosting our summer academic camps for kids and teens at Macalester College. Located at the intersection of historic Grand and Snelling Avenues in St. Paul, MN, our summer computer camp in the Twin Cities is a convenient 10 minutes from both downtown St. Paul and Minneapolis. Beyond its architecture and amenities, the neighborhood also earns superlatives for safety: the St. Paul Pioneer Press rated it one of the two safest in the metropolitan area. Come check out our summer day camps near Minneapolis as well as our awesome overnight camps and teen camps!
Macalester College
Macalester is among the top ranking liberal arts colleges in the country. Macalester provides an undergraduate education of uncompromising quality, characterized by academic excellence, international perspectives, a diverse academic community, and civic engagement as an integral part of learning and life.
Macalester College Facts
Nickname: The Scots
Founded: 1874
Schools at Macalester College: Liberal Arts College
Student Population: Macalester is a highly selective school, with a current admittance rate of 39%. This low rate has lead Macalester to be considered “Most Selective” by the U.S. News & World Report Rankings. For the class of 2012, 5,040 applications resulted in one of the lowest acceptance rates ever for the college.
Rankings: Among the 215 national liberal arts colleges listed in the latest U.S. News & World Report ranking, Macalester College is now ranked 24th (up one from their #25 ranking last year). Looking at the academic quality and the net cost of admittance for a student who receives the average level of need-based financial aid, Macalester was ranked 9th nationally in the category of “Great Schools, Great Prices” – making it the perfect academic summer camp location.
Athletics: Macalester’s athletes, The Scots, are members of the Minnesota Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (MIAC). Macalester’s football team has faced a tough road since its inception. The program was officially dissolved by the college in 1906, citing “thoroughly aroused to the evils, real or imaginary, of this game, the public is clamoring for the entire abolition or reform on this ‘relic of barbarism.’” However, the team was reinstated in the early 1970′s, only to ride a 50 game NCAA losing streak that lasted six years! Since 2002, the football team has competed independent of the MIAC due to poor performance.
Distinguished Alumni & Personnel: The list of the distinguished Macalester alumni and faculty includes: architect Cass Gilbert; political figure Kofi Annan; businessman and philanthropist DeWitt Wallace; writers Tim O’Brien and Wang Ping; musicians Bob Mould and Will Sheff; sculptor Anthony Caponi; talent agent Ari Emanuel; and actors Peter Berg and Carl Lumbly.Meals
All meals are included with our overnight and extended day programs. Day campers have the option of purchasing the lunch plan or bringing a sack lunch. The lunch plan is recommended, but not mandatory. If the lunch plan is purchased, lunch is provided Monday-Friday. Many university dining facilities do not permit outside food to be brought into the dining hall; students bringing bag lunches may eat outside of the dining hall with their classmates and instructors.
Maps/Carpool
See maps and driving directions in My Account for detailed directions on how to get to our exact location on campus. Want to Carpool? Go green and save some green when you carpool to camp! Sign up for our Carpool app in My Account to see the other families in your area that are interested in carpooling.
8:1 Staff Ratio Guarantee
iD Guarantee - Small Class Sizes
We guarantee ridiculously small class sizes, with a maximum of 8 students per instructor. Why? Because our teaching philosophy is premised on personalization - your path, at your pace. iD's passionate, adult-only instructors guide students through customized curriculum with 1-on-1 teaching. The immersive environment (typically 5, 6, 7 or 8 students - but never more than 8 per instructor) is ideal for fostering creativity. Read more about the 8:1 iD Guarantee.
Adult-Only Instructors
iD Tech Camps recruits energetic, adult-only instructors to teach our technology courses and supervise our students. Our summer staff is passionate about technology. We do not cut corners by employing Counselors-in-Training. We recruit from top colleges and universities to find staff with great credentials in game development, filmmaking, web design, programming, photography, etc.
Personalized Instruction
Most courses are beginner through advanced. Our innovative curriculum is premised on a blended learning strategy. Students receive blended (or hybrid) instruction through use of the brand new iD Game Plan engine along with live 1-on-1 instruction from our team of educators. Our approach allows students to move along at an appropriate, customized pace.
Project-Based Curriculum
We encourage a hands-on, experiential approach to technology; students learn by doing. Each student is provided with a computer and works with the same products that professionals use in their fields. Students complete a project showing off their new technology skills. By focusing on practical skill development of STEM topics (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) iD prepares students to take their new tech knowledge back into the real world.
Staff at this Location
Meet some of the amazing instructors that have taught at Macalester College over the years.
- “Ansel”: Ansel recently graduated from the University of Wisconsin Stout with a BFA in Multimedia Design and Photography. While not at camp, he does freelance design work.
- “Sonic Boom”: Sonic Boom is programming machine! He has a B.A. in Physics from Vassar College and an M.S. in Computer Science from the University of Michigan. He now works part time for an iPhone app development company and teaches an intro Computer Science class at Macalester College, where he is also pursuing his PhD. Outside of technology, he dances competitively, plays soccer and teaches piano.
- “Penny”: Penny will soon graduate from Carleton College, where she studies Popular Culture, Creative Writing and Computer Science. As an America Reads and Counts Tutor, she also provides mentorship and academic support for students struggling to meet grade-level reading and math standards in the Northfield Public Schools. She’s been with iD Tech Camps for multiple seasons, and loves sharing her love of video games with campers!
- “Moonbeam”: Moonbeam studies at Pacific Lutheran University in Tacoma, WA. She is a former camper with iD Tech Camps at Macalester, and she loved camp so much that she camp back to have more fun! She is pursuing a B.S. in Computer Science with a minor in Music, and has plans to work in the video game or film industry after graduation.
Safety & Peace of Mind
Risk Management
Adult staff and instructors supervise all activities. iD has a policy of never using Counselors-in-Training (CITs).
American Camp Association® Accreditation
iD Tech Camps is accredited by the ACA at multiple locations, meaning we have met over 300 health and safety requirements. All camps follow ACA guidelines.
Background Checks
We conduct criminal background checks, sexual offender background checks, multiple reference checks and identification checks on all summer staff.
CPR & First Aid
All camps have Directors and Staff that are CPR and First Aid Certified.
Sample Week
A typical day varies depending on session and location, but it might look something like this:
SUNDAY MONDAY - THURSDAY FRIDAY 7:30 am
Extended Day Campers – Check In
Overnight & Extended Day Campers - Breakfast8 am
Day Campers - Drop Off & Arrival Activities
9 am
Welcome & Opening Activity
Finesse Projects to Gold Version
9:30 am
Instruction – Jump on the computers!
10 am
11 am
Friday Activity
12 pm
Lunch – Overnight and Extended Day Campers eat in the campus dining hall. Day Campers can choose to bring a bag lunch or purchase the meal plan.
Picnic Lunch
Raffle
1 pm
Instruction – Back to the labs, woo hoo!
Showcase Prep
2 pm
2:30 pm
Techtivities – Ultimate Frisbee? Apples to Apples anyone? Gaming tournaments? We’ve got it all!
3 pm
Family Showcase*
3:30 pm
Instruction – Back to the labs!
4 pm
All campers - Check Out
5 pm
Day Campers - Pick Up & Closing Activities
Overnight & Extended Day Campers – Open Lab/Free TimeUltimate Gaming Weekends – Option available at select locations.
5:30 pm
6 pm
Overnight Campers - Check In
Dinner
6:30 pm
Welcome
Evening Activity - Movie Nights, Local Outings, Gaming Tournaments & more!
7 pm
Dinner
Extended Day Campers – Pick Up
7:30 pm
Evening Activity
Evening Activity – cont’d.
8 pm
8:30 pm
Drills
9 pm
Chillax
10 pm
PreTeen Lights Out
11 pm
Good Night Teens
Off-Computer Camp Activities
Students spend approximately 5 hours on the computer each day. iD Tech Camps is careful to balance technology and fun - giving students Tech-Reation time. When they're not on the computer, students participate in fun summer activities like organized sports, gaming tournaments, and more.
Family Showcase
Every Friday afternoon, we invite parents and friends to come and experience iD Tech Camps. See the labs where students learn, explore campus, meet our staff, applaud students' course projects and attend the personalized diploma ceremony. *At Stanford, Pre-Teen Family Showcase: 2:30 - 3:30 PM, Teen Family Showcase: 4:00 - 5:00 PM
Hours/ Camp Options
Day Camp - Day Camp runs Monday through Friday, with drop off between 8 - 9:00 am and pick up between 5 - 6:00 pm (3 - 5:00 pm on Fridays, varies by site).
Extended Day - Extended Day Camp runs Monday through Friday, with check-in between 7:30 am and pick up at 7:00 pm (3 - 5:00 pm on Fridays, varies by site).
Overnight Options - Overnight camps are available at most locations for students ages 10 and up. Overnight camp runs Sunday through Friday, with check-in between 5 - 6:00 pm on Sunday and pick-up at 3 - 5:00 pm on Friday (varies by site).
Ultimate Gaming Weekends - Stay the weekend and game with us. UGW is fully-supervised and includes housing, meals and supervision. It is available at the end of an Overnight Camp week or as a bridge between two consecutive weeks of Overnight Camp. Not available at all locations.Attention Minnesota Teens!
Our summer camps in Minnesota at Macalester College just got even cooler for our teen students. We have specialized teen activities including free time to hang out, movie nights, extra project time, and as always, plenty of gaming. Check out our other cool teen-only programs like the iD Gaming Academy, iD Programming Academy, iD Visual Arts Academy and Ultimate Gaming Weekends (offered at select locations).
iD in the News
Macalester College News
Watch iD Tech Camps on NBC's Today Show with Kathie Lee and Hoda!
Apr 12th, 2012
WLFI -TV Channel 18 visits our Purdue Summer Camp in Indiana
Jun 22nd, 2011
As appeared in The Pioneer Press - article about tech courses in St. Paul
Jul 5th, 2010
Mar 1st, 2009
As appeared in Family Times - High Tech Camps: Computers and much, much more! by Karen Haywood Queen
Mar 21st, 2008
Testimonials From Macalester College
What Parents Are Saying
“I believe this is our seventh year at iD Tech Camps. My boys have always had an enjoyable time and learned a lot about computer programming and game design. The staff is knowledgeable and trustworthy, and I know the campus is a very safe environment for my boys. I recommend iD Tech Camps whenever possible! Ann F., parent, Macalester College
“My boys said this was their favorite camp. They wished that school was like iD Tech Camps because then they would want to go every day!! Kathryn A., parent, Macalester College
“Amazed by such involved, proactive, encouraging staff! That really makes the experience unique for each of these kids! I love the technical angle that is lacking in so many other camps! Kavita N., parent, Macalester College
“I love how the staff continually honors the campers’ greatness in a profoundly positive, fun, kid-accessible and downloadable way! Anne L., parent, Macalester College
“The first day of camp, my son came home and said that he finally met kids that were like him. He’s never been so excited about ANYTHING before. Thanks so much! You’ll see Ben again for years to come! Gina K., parent, Macalester College
What Campers Are Saying
“Totally awesome…I would definitely come back! Great educated teachers! Nothing is bad about this camp! Once again, AWESOME!!!! Charlie N., student, Macalester College
“This camp was great! I was already experienced in robotics, and I was hoping that the whole week wouldn’t be “This is an NXT.” Fortunately, the counselor was understanding of my situation, and taught me things I didn’t think possible. I would recommend this camp to my friends without hesitation. Jonathan D., student, Macalester College
“Incredibly good counselors, and always a ton of fun. iD Tech Camps is always the highlight of my year. I recommend the camp to everyone whenever I have the chance. Once again, amazing job on another incredible year!!!!!! Wesley S., student, Macalester College
“I loved how the instructors used creativity and hands-on interactions to teach the curriculum! Graham J., student, Macalester College
“Awesome! I had never used this software before, but by the end of the week I had made a complete game! That’s so cool! Jonathan D., student, Macalester College
Frequently Asked Questions
What courses are offered at this location?
Go to Step 2.When does camp start?
See Step 2 for the dates of our weeklong university summer computer camps.How much does camp cost?
The cost of tuition varies depending on the course, location and camp option that you choose. Basic Day Camp ranges from $779 to $999 per weeklong course. There are additional costs for program add-ons including lunch, overnight camp, and weekend stays.How can I save on tuition?
There are many ways for you to save!- Register early to take advantage of our seasonal promotions.
- Refer-a-Friend and you and your friend both save $50.
- Sign up for multiple weeks to save $50 off each additional week.
- Register multiple siblings and save $50 for each sibling.
Do you offer financial aid?
iD Tech Camps is proud to offer tuition assistance for families who qualify. Application deadlines are announced each year in the Spring.What is your cancellation policy?
Balance payments, less the non-refundable deposit, are refundable up until 3 weeks prior to the start of the confirmed camp week/session. No refunds will be issued for cancellations or withdrawals within 3 weeks of the start of confirmed camp weeks/sessions. All cancellations must be made online in My Account or submitted in writing to the internalDrive Inc. office no later than 3 weeks prior to the start of camp. For more details, please see our Terms & Conditions.Does my child need to have a high computer IQ?
No, our courses are for beginner to advanced students. Because of our small ratios, instructors can work with students 1-on-1 and personalize the curriculum for each student's level.Should my child bring a personal laptop to camp?
No, students do not need to bring laptops to camp. We provide a computer for each student to use for the week. All materials necessary for the course will be provided.Do you have any teen programs?
Yes. We have weeklong teen-only courses at iD Tech Camps, plus two-week pre-college Teen Academies. iD Tech Camps is for ages 7-17, and our courses and activities are divided between teen courses and pre-teen courses. In some cases, teens and pre-teens will study in the same lab (but will not be mixed in the same class). Students will be supervised at all times, but we attempt to strike the right balance of independence. Teens enjoy extra privileges appropriate for their environment and maturity levels. Special Teen Scene activities include computer gaming tournaments and Gamingpalooza.iD also offers specialized iD Teen Academies in the topics of Game Design, Programming, Film and Photography at select locations across the country. These teen camps are intensive, two-week courses with tours of nearby industry hot spots and bi-weekly portfolio building workshops. See our iD Teen Academies page for more information.
How do I register? How do I contact you?
To register, find availability at the location you desire, and you'll be guided through the process. Registering online is the fastest way to get into camp. Or, you can phone us at 1-888-709-TECH (8324) or 1-408-871-2227. You can also email us at info@internalDrive.com. And, if you'd like a brochure sent to you, please click the brochure link.
