USF鈥檚 AI & Machine Learning Summer Intensive is a 5-day program where high school students will find challenge and connection. This camp gives students the opportunity to develop high-demand Python skill sets, learn alongside USF Engineering faculty, and build prototype generative AI applications using modern APIs.
From predicting local weather patterns to programming "Negotiation Bots," students will engage with AI professionals and robotics researchers to find mentors and explore the career pathways of tomorrow. At USF, curiosity becomes capability.
AI & Machine Learning Summer Intensive Details
Camp Director: Dr. Raiyan Abdul Baten, Dr. FNU Kaleemunnisa, Dr. Ankur Mali
Location: USF Tampa
Grade Levels: Rising 10th - 12th
Time: 9:00AM - 4:00PM
Cost: TBD
| Dates | Campus | Is this eligible for Rocky's Residents? |
|---|---|---|
| July 13th - 17th, 2026 | USF Tampa | Yes |
What to Expect
Build Your Data Foundations
Start the week with an immersive introduction to Python鈥攖he language of AI. You'll move from "Hello World" to structuring complex datasets using Pandas. Whether you're brand new to code or already a hobbyist, you'll gain the core skills needed to manipulate data like a pro.
Predicting the Future with Machine Learning
Transition from viewing data to interrogating it. Using Scikit-Learn, you鈥檒l build models that find patterns in local Tampa data鈥攆rom predicting bike share rentals to classifying hurricane warnings. The day culminates in an exclusive field trip to the Robotics Lab to see how these mathematical models control physical hardware.
Conversations using the "API"
Move into the cutting-edge world of Large Language Models (LLMs). Learn how to connect your Python scripts to the cloud via APIs, master "Prompt Engineering," and tackle the ethics of AI hallucinations and deepfakes. This is where your programs become interactive, responsive, and human-facing.
Robotics & Social AI
Apply your skills to human-centric problems. Spend the day building "Negotiation Bots" and perspective-shifting tools designed to navigate difficult conversations. In the afternoon, visit the human-computer interaction lab to witness virtual reality in action and see how AI perceives human intent.
The week culminates in a professional-style Innovation Fair where your ideas take center stage. Participants will refine their AI or machine learning prototype, craft a compelling elevator pitch, and present their work to an audience of parents, USF faculty, and Tampa Bay tech leaders. The experience concludes with an inspiring keynote from the Dean of Engineering and a celebratory awards ceremony, giving students the opportunity to leave with confidence, recognition, and a tangible project that showcases their innovation.
Useful Information
Registration & Program Details
When does registration open for the AI & Machine Learning Summer Intensive?
Registration for all 2026 summer programs will open on February 1, 2026.
What is the capacity of the AI & Machine Learning Summer Intensive?
Each session of the AI & Machine Learning Summer Intensive has a capacity of 30.
Does my child need prior experience?
Prior coding experience is NOT required! Our curriculum is designed to scale from beginners to advanced students. However, students should have an interest in logic, problem-solving, and a comfort level working with computers
Will my child need a device?
No, all participants will have access to a USF computer lab throughout the program.
Where is the AI & Machine Learning Summer Intensive located?
The AI & Machine Learning Summer Intensive will be held at the USF Tampa campus.
What time is drop off and pick up for the AI & Machine Learning Summer Intensive?
Our staff will be ready to welcome your child for drop-off at 8:50 AM in front of the yet to be determined camp location, with pick-up starting at 4:00 PM. If you are running late for drop-off or pick-up, please call our office at (813) 974-3355 to let us know.
After registering for the AI & Machine Learning Summer Intensive, when will I start receiving logistical details, including drop-off and pick-up times?
Staff & Safety
Who are the USF Faculty/Staff that lead the AI & Machine Learning Summer Institute?
The USF AI & Machine Learning Summer Intensive is taught by a team of University of South Florida faculty from the Bellini College of Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity, and Computing. The instructional team includes Dr. Raiyan Abdul Baten, director of the USF Computational Social Science and AI (CSSAI) Lab, whose expertise includes machine learning, artificial intelligence, and human-centered technology; Dr. FNU Kaleemunnisa, an assistant professor of instruction with extensive industry experience as a data scientist, including developing AI and machine learning solutions in the financial and technology sectors; and Dr. Ankur Mali, a researcher and educator specializing in deep learning, natural language processing, and neuro-symbolic AI. Together, this faculty team combines academic research, real-world industry application, and a strong commitment to engaging high school students through hands-on, accessible learning experiences in artificial intelligence and machine learning.
Are staff background-checked and trained?
Yes. All staff undergo Level 2 background checks and complete USF鈥檚 youth protection and safety training.
Residential Options
Are there residential options available for the AI & Machine Learning Summer Intensive?
Yes, the AI & Machine Learning Summer Intensive is eligible for Rocky鈥檚 Residents, a residential add-on offered for select high school programs. This option provides 6 days and 5 nights of supervised on-campus housing, meals, and evening programming that supports community building and exposure to university life.
How can I register for Rocky's Residents residnetial add-on?
During registration for your day camp, you will have the option to add Rocky's Residents as part of the process. There is no separate registration required for the residential program.
How much does the Rocky's Residents residential add-on cost?
The cost for Rocky's Residents is $1,395 per camper. This includes:
- 6 days and 5 nights of accommodation at Juniper-Poplar Residence Hall
- All meals provided at USF Dining Halls
- Supervision and activities led by trained counselors
- Recreation and wellness activities, including sports, fitness challenges, and more
- Access to campus facilities, such as recreational fields and study lounges
- A campus tour and presentations from USF Admissions and Student Success
- Evening events with student organizations and USF faculty
- Laundry facilities for campers' use
- 24-hour on-call emergency maintenance and support
Cancellation & Changes
What is the cancellation, transfer, and refund policy for USF Youth Experiences programs?
If you need to cancel a camp registration, please email youthxp@usf.edu.
Cancellations or transfer requests received at least 15 business days prior to the camp start date will be eligible for a refund or transfer to another available camp, minus any administrative or processing fees. Cancellations or transfer requests received within 15 business days of the camp start date are not eligible for a refund or transfer. No refunds will be issued after a camp has begun, regardless of the number of days attended or participation level. No refunds will be issued if a participant is dismissed from camp due to a violation of the camp鈥檚 conduct policy or code of behavior.
We make every effort to run all camps exactly as scheduled. In the unlikely event it becomes necessary to cancel, postpone, or combine camps, or change a camp location, you will be notified by email or phone. Please ensure your contact information is up to date. If USF cancels a camp, you will receive a full refund. If USF reschedules a camp, you will have the option to receive a full refund or transfer to the new session.
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