Superior Pre-College 3D Animation Summer Program for High Schoolers at Harvard University

Course Description: Superior Pre-College 3D Animation Summer Program for High Schoolers at Harvard University

This immersive summer programme offers students aged 14-17 a hands-on introduction to 3D animation and visual storytelling, guiding them through the complete creative process — from concept and character design to animation and final presentation.

Designed to mirror the workflow of a professional animation studio, the programme blends technical training, creative exploration, and collaborative production. Students work with industry-standard tools and techniques while developing a short animated film that reflects both technical skill and personal expression.

By the end of the programme, each student will have produced a fully realised 3D animated short film (60–90 seconds) — a strong portfolio piece demonstrating their understanding of animation, storytelling, and project management.

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Core Subjects Included �*

Modeling

Students begin by creating props before progressing to the modeling of a simple character. This foundational subject introduces the construction of digital assets essential for storytelling. Emphasis is placed on understanding form, structure, and refinement to build models that serve as the backbone of animation.

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Texturing

Students learn how to apply textures and materials to their 3D models, bringing characters and environments to life. Key topics include:

• UV mapping

• Surface detailing

• Using textures to add realism, depth, and personality

Students explore how visual choices support storytelling and character development.

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Rigging

In this subject, students learn how to rig their character by applying joints and controllers. Rigging enables characters to move naturally and express emotion. This critical technical skill allows students to prepare their models for animation by building the internal systems that control movement and performance.

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Animation

Using AUTODESK MAYA, the industry-standard animation software, students study the principles of animation, including weight, timing, motion, and attitude. They apply these principles directly to their character, learning how movement conveys emotion and advances a story. The focus is on creating believable, engaging animation that captivates an audience 🎞️.

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Writing & Storyboarding

Students develop a simple but effective story that drives their animated short. Emphasis is placed on:

• Character goals

• Obstacles and conflict

• Narrative structure and clarity

Students are also introduced to storyboarding, learning how to visually plan scenes and translate written ideas into animated sequences that support strong storytelling.

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Guided Instruction & Creative Support �*

Throughout the programme, students receive personalised guidance from the instructor, particularly during the final stages of their project. This supervision ensures that all aspects of the animation process come together cohesively.

Students receive constructive feedback on:

• Refining 3D models

• Improving animation flow

• Strengthening narrative clarity

• Polishing technical and creative details

Instructor support also introduces students to the collaborative nature of animation production, helping them understand how creative teams work together in professional environments.

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Final Project �*

By the end of the programme, each student will complete a short animated movie (typically 60–90 seconds). This final project showcases:

• 3D modeling

• Texturing

• Rigging

• Animation

• Storytelling

• Project planning and execution

The final piece serves as a polished portfolio project, demonstrating both technical proficiency and creative vision.

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Learning Experience �*

Students work both independently and collaboratively, gaining a well-rounded understanding of the animation pipeline. The learning environment reflects real-world studio workflows, encouraging responsibility, creativity, and teamwork.

By the end of the programme, students leave with:

• A deeper understanding of animation production

• Enhanced technical and creative skills

• Increased confidence in their artistic abilities

• A strong portfolio-ready animation piece

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Educational Philosophy �*

The programme is built around a “learn by doing” philosophy. Students begin creating immediately, learning skills through direct application rather than theory alone. This hands-on approach allows students to:

• Learn faster

• Retain skills more effectively

• Build confidence through real creative output

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Programme Values �*

The curriculum supports the development of key personal and professional values:

• Leadership – Encouraging initiative and responsibility in collaborative creative work

• Creativity – Fostering original thinking and problem-solving

• Collaboration – Emphasising teamwork, professionalism, and respect

• Discipline – Developing focus, consistency, and commitment

• Expression & Individuality – Encouraging students to tell meaningful, personal stories through animation

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Instructors 👩‍🏫👨‍�*

Faculty members are active professionals in the visual and performing arts. They bring real-world experience, industry insight, and a strong passion for teaching and storytelling. Instructors are consistently praised for their supportive, engaging, and hands-on approach.

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Arrival Information ✈️

Commuting Students

• No scheduled activities on the Sunday start date

• Registration and orientation take place on the first day of class (Monday)

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Residential Students

Students staying in programme housing may use optional airport transportation.

• Arrival Window: 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

• Students will be greeted at baggage claim if arrival details are submitted

• Students must arrive and depart on official programme dates

Airport Transportation Fee:

• One-time fee of $50 (covers pick-up and drop-off)

• Transportation is for students only and space is limited

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Registration, Move-In & Orientation �*

• Date: Sunday before classes begin

• Time: 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

• Registration takes approximately 30 minutes

Residential students attend a mandatory evening orientation at 6:00 p.m., including food and essential information. A supervised shopping trip may follow.

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Housing �*

Housing offers a supervised, student-focused environment within walking distance of classrooms.

2025 Housing Prices

(Subject to slight increase for 2026)

• 1-week shared room: $1,470

• 3-week shared room: $4,252.50

• Includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner

Additional Requirements

• $250 refundable room and key deposit

• Housing is confirmed only after payment and availability

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Supervision & Student Safety 🛡️

• Residential advisors live on-site and provide 24/7 supervision

• Evening and weekend activities are fully supervised

• A buddy system is enforced at all times

• Students may not leave buildings alone

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Activities & Excursions �*

Evenings and weekends include supervised activities such as:

• Sightseeing and neighborhood tours

• Film screenings and game nights

• Local cultural and science attractions

• Outdoor activities like biking or kayaking

All activities are included in housing costs.

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Facilities �*

• High-speed internet

• Laundry facilities

• Supervised residence halls

• Dormitories are not air-conditioned

Students are provided with basic furnishings. Certain electrical items are prohibited for safety reasons.

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Meals 🍽️

• Residential students receive 3 meals daily

• Meals are served at a central dining hall

• Commuting students purchase meals independently

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Health & Medical Care �*

• Students must inform staff immediately if medical care is needed

• Students self-administer medications

• Medical and insurance forms must be completed in advance

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Zero Tolerance Policy �*

Drugs and alcohol are strictly prohibited. Violations result in immediate dismissal without refund.

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Travel, Curfew & Conduct �*

• Strict curfews apply

• Travel outside designated areas is prohibited

• Violations may result in expulsion

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International Students & Visas �*

Students attend on a tourist visa or visa waiver.

The programme is classified as camp, not academic study.

Visa support letters can be provided where required.

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Looking Ahead �*

By the end of the programme, students leave with:

• A complete animated short film

• Professional-level exposure to animation workflows

• Enhanced creative confidence

• A strong portfolio piece for future study or creative opportunities

A Day in the Life �*

3D Animation Summer Program (Sample Weekday Schedule)

(Curriculum & assignments subject to change)

A typical weekday on the programme follows a structured yet creative rhythm, balancing technical instruction, storytelling, and hands-on production.

Morning: Foundations & Creative Thinking

Students arrive on campus by 9:30 a.m., beginning the day with focused sessions that introduce core concepts and creative frameworks.

• 9:30 – 10:00 a.m.

  Registration, orientation check-ins, or daily briefings (especially at the start of the week)

• 10:00 – 12:00 p.m.

  Morning classes rotate by day and may include:

• Introduction to Autodesk Maya

• History of Animation

• Screenwriting

• Storyboarding

• Directing

These sessions build the conceptual and creative foundation students need before moving into production.

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Midday: Lunch & Reset 🍽️

• 12:00 – 1:00 p.m.

  Lunch break.

  Students relax, recharge, and socialise before the afternoon’s intensive studio work.

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Afternoon: Studio Production & Skill Development

• 1:00 – 5:00 p.m.

  Afternoon sessions are hands-on and production-focused. Depending on the day, students work on:

• 3D Modeling

• Story presentation & critique

• Initial storyboard presentations

• Lighting & texturing

• Character development and refinement

This is where students apply what they’ve learned, receive instructor feedback, and make visible progress on their animated projects.

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Weekly Flow Snapshot 🗓️

• Monday: Orientation, Intro to Maya, Modeling

• Tuesday: History of Animation, Story Presentations, Modeling

• Wednesday: Screenwriting, Modeling

• Thursday: Storyboarding, Initial Storyboard Presentation

• Friday: Directing, Lighting & Texturing

Each week builds toward a polished animated short, with skills layering progressively.

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Student Checklist ✅

Important reminders before arrival

• Tuition and housing balances are due 30 days before the programme start date

• Confirm that your health insurance covers you in Cambridge, MA

• Complete all required online forms:

• Housing

• Medical

• Arrival & Departure

• Any additional programme forms

• Residential students:

• May only arrive on Sunday of the programme start date

• Must depart on Saturday when the programme ends

• List allergies and medications on the Medical Release Form

• Notify the programme of any changes to:

• Address

• Email

• Phone number

• Bring this information packet with you (parents may want a copy as well)

• Contact the programme team with any questions or concerns before arrival

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Packing List �*

Essentials for a comfortable and productive stay

Daily Living

• Pillow, linens (extra-long twin), comforter/blanket, towel(s)

• Warm-weather clothing

• Comfortable walking shoes

• Sunscreen

• Rain gear

• Bathing suit

• Sweatshirts or light jackets (cool classrooms & evenings)

Academic & Personal Items

• Refillable water bottle

• Notebook & pen/pencil

• Cell phone and chargers

• Universal power adapter (international students)

• Debit card or spending money

Creative & Discipline-Specific

• Animators / Filmmakers:

• External hard drive (recommended 1TB minimum)

• Performers:

• Clothing suitable for movement or dance

• Other disciplines:

• Refer to programme-specific guidance if applicable

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3D Animation Preparation �*

How to get the most out of the course

Although this is a computer-based 3D animation programme, any visual arts background is helpful. Students are encouraged to prepare in advance by:

Creative Practice

• Practising drawing and shading

• Bringing a sketchbook for idea development and visual planning

• Familiarising themselves with basic visual storytelling concepts

Software & Technical Skills

• A working knowledge of Photoshop is useful but not required

• Optional: a tablet (iPad, Surface, or similar) with a stylus for digital drawing

• If exploring 2D animation, use drawing apps that export .PSD or .PNG files

Recommended Reading & Viewing �*

• Film Directing:

  Film Directing: Shot by Shot — Steven Katz

• Animation:

  The Animator’s Survival Kit — Richard Williams

• Viewing Inspiration:

• Chuck Jones’ Bugs Bunny shorts (pose-to-pose animation & humor)

• Pixar films (story, movement, emotional clarity)

Storage Recommendation

Students are strongly encouraged to bring a professional external hard drive (at least 1TB) to store all project files.

Recommended brands include:

• G-Technology

• LaCie

• Seagate

This ensures safe storage and easy continuation of work after the programme ends.

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We Look Forward to Meeting You This Summer �*

This programme offers a rare opportunity to learn by doing, collaborate with peers, and complete a professional-quality animated short. Students leave with new technical skills, creative confidence, and a meaningful portfolio piece that reflects their growth as visual storytellers.