CHAMPAIGN-URBANA, IL (Chambana Today) – High school students are encouraged to explore future careers and dive into hands-on discovery during the 2025 Illini Summer Academies, hosted by Illinois Extension 4-H. The immersive, five-day event will take place on the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign campus from June 22–26.
Participants will get a taste of college life and engage in interactive sessions led by University of Illinois faculty. The academies, which focus on careers in agriculture, technology, sustainability, and more, are an opportunity for teens to tackle real-world challenges and learn from experts.
Five academies, hosted by the College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences (ACES), include topics like digital agriculture, food insecurity, sustainability, and honeybee biology. The event also features other academies on AI & machine learning, veterinary medicine, health innovation, business, and more.
“The Illini Summer Academies offer students a chance to step into dynamic careers that make an impact on the community and the planet,” said Mark Becker, 4-H youth development food systems specialist.
Students will live in campus dorms, dine in campus dining halls, and develop leadership and college-ready skills while connecting with peers across the state. Some scholarships are still available. Students interested in participating can register online by the extended deadline of April 15.