TRAILS AI Camp
Application Deadlines
Applications are closed for TRAILS AI Camp 2026.
The TRAILS AI Camp, hosted by the Computing Catalyst and the Institute for Trustworthy AI in Law & Society (TRAILS), is a program for rising 10th-, 11th- and 12th-grade students to explore what trust in artificial intelligence looks like from social and technical viewpoints.
In this three-week, non-residential research learning experience, participants will explore the ethical dilemmas of AI through team projects, industry field trips and guest speaker presentations. They will also learn how to create AI solutions responsibly through active collaboration with faculty members from the University of Maryland, George Washington University and Morgan State University.
Frequently Asked Questions
When will the TRAILS AI Camp run this year?
In summer 2026, the TRAILS AI Camp will run from July 20 through August 7. Please note that the first week of the program (July 20–24) will be held asynchronously.
Who should apply for the TRAILS AI Camp?
The TRAILS AI Camp is a summer program for rising 10th-, 11th- and 12th-grade students. CompSciConnect alums who recently completed Terp AND are rising 9th graders will also be considered.
How much does it cost to participate in AI Summer Academy?
The cost to attend this program is $600. This fee covers access to our learning management system to complete asynchronous learning, program materials and activity costs. Please do not include the fee at the time of application. The fee is due upon acceptance into the program.
Is financial assistance available?
Financial assistance is available for those experiencing hardship. The Computing Catalyst offers a need-based scholarship—email catalyst_k12@umd.edu to learn more.
What does a typical camp day look like?
Here is the schedule for a typical camp day:
9:30 a.m–12 p.m. Trustworthy AI Discussions & Mini-Projects
12:15–1:15 p.m. Lunch
1:30–4:30 p.m. Research Group Work
*Field trips and guest speakers are scheduled during Classroom Instruction time blocks.
What types of projects do students work on?
Explore team projects by the 2024 TRAILS AI Camp participants.
What will learners do during the asynchronous week?
Students will be expected to complete a series of Python coding assignments and projects to adequately prepare them for the 2-week in-person research experience. This week is critical for setting learners up for success in the TRAILS AI Camp.
What kind of research will participants be conducting?
The research component of the TRAILS AI Camp will blend independent project work with faculty mentorship. Participants will work on mini research projects related to the content they learn in the morning and the research topics of the research mentors.
Where do lab meetings take place?
Lab meetings take place in the Brendan Iribe Center for Computer Science and Engineering.
