If you have a keen interest in the fields of robotics and automation and want to deepen your understanding of technology and the programming behind it, then you should consider applying to NYU’s Summer Program in Automatic, Robotics and Coding (SPARC)!

This blog takes an in-depth look into this program and why participating in it can be incredibly beneficial for you. Whether you’re looking to enrich your knowledge and deepen your coding and automation skills or just need a refresher that can also significantly enhance your college applications, this program is a solid opportunity either way.

What is NYU SPARC?

Hosted by the prestigious NYU Tandon School of Engineering, SPARC is a two-week on-campus summer intensive designed to introduce students to the fundamentals of automation, robotics, and coding through a hands-on, project-based approach. 

The program is held at NYU’s Downtown Brooklyn campus and will introduce you to the basics of robotics, mechatronics, and programming without requiring prior experience. It aims to cultivate not just technical skills but also problem-solving and innovative thinking.

How is NYU SPARC structured?

SPARC is a two-week, full-day program with 6 hours of classes every day from Monday to Friday. While SPARC is intended for beginners with no prior experience in robotics, it is still robotics taught at a high level for the academically motivated. 

You will learn the applications of microcontrollers, interface sensors and actuators through direct, practical usage via the components provided in a robotics kit. You will build your own robots, combining concepts and practices from mechanical engineering, electrical engineering and computer science. 

Over the course of the two weeks, you can expect to attain a solid understanding of every aspect of robotics - from microcontroller anatomy and programming to coding key constructs, component interfacing, sensor commands, and actuator usage.

Is it prestigious?

While SPARC is accessible and open to applicants with good academic records and a passion for the subject rather than competitive admission criteria, it provides substantial educational value and networking opportunities. 

You will gain practical skills at the intersection of electrical and mechanical engineering, as well as a working knowledge of coding, all of which are beneficial if you’re looking to pursue further education or careers in STEM fields. 

However, it's worth noting that SPARC, as a non-credit program, might not have the same level of prestige or selectivity as some other summer programs offered by NYU or other institutions.

How does the application process work?

To be eligible for SPARC, you must be at least 14 years old by the day the program begins. Those opting for housing must be at least 15. Beyond that, there are no other criteria. No minimum GPA is required, but good academic standing is expected.

The key application dates to keep in mind are:

• January 15, 2024 – Application Opens

• April 22, 2024  – Applications Due

• May 10, 2024 – Application Closes

Here are the different sessions that you can opt for:

• Session One -

• Orientation: June 14, 2024 (via Zoom 4:00 PM - 5:30 PM EST)

• Program: June 17, 2024 – June 28, 2024

• Session Two – 

• Orientation: July 1, 2024 (via Zoom 4:00 PM - 5:30 PM EST)

• Program: July 8, 2024 – July 19, 2024

• Session Three – 

• Orientation: July 26, 2024  (via Zoom 4:00 PM - 5:30 PM EST)

• Program: July 29, 2024 – August 9, 2024

Do note that these are deadlines for the 2024 cohort; however, you can expect similar deadlines for future editions. 

How much does NYU SPARC cost?

SPARC has a tuition fee of $3,000, including materials, service fees, and events fees. You can also opt for on-campus housing for $616 and meal plans for $192.

Unfortunately, SPARC does not offer scholarships or financial aid.

Pros and Cons of attending

Pros:

1. Great educational value: You’ll get a lot of hands-on experience in robotics and coding, which are valuable skills in the modern tech landscape. The pedagogy ensures that your learning will not be limited to theoretical concepts - you’ll be physically building your own robots and understanding the practical techniques used in modern-day robotics.

2. Work with your own robotics kit: SPARC provides all participants with their own kits, so even after the program, you’ll have the tools to continue experimenting and learning at your own pace. This experience can translate into greater expertise when you apply for other, more in-depth summer programs or try to participate in competitions.

3. Accessible entry criteria: Unlike many other programs, SPARC is meant for beginners and newbies to robotics, and you don’t need to have a high GPA or meet competitive admissions criteria to apply. This makes it a great introductory program to take your first steps in robotics and coding.

4. Good networking opportunities: Since you’ll be learning from the renowned faculty at NYU’s Tandon School of Engineering in a small batch, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to network with these industry experts. While SPARC has no bearing on your possible future admissions to NYU, it is still a solid avenue to build networks and connections that can be helpful for you in the future.

Cons:

1. The cost: With tuition and additional expenses, the program can be pretty costly for some, especially without financial aid or scholarships. If you’re able to afford it, it’s still well worth the cost, thanks to the sheer quality of education and the practical coding experience, but it is a significant investment.

2. Limited prestige: Compared to other programs, such as MIT’s RSI or Harvard Summer School, SPARC’s open admission criteria may not add the same level of distinction to a college application. The pedagogy is focused on introductory topics, and there’s no tangible output, so you have little to show for this program in terms of profile building.

3. Limited depth of learning: Since SPARC is designed for students new to robotics and coding and is only two weeks long, there’s only so much you can take away from the program. While there is a thorough introduction to the fundamentals, the course structure does not allow for a deep understanding of any particular topic.

Our review

NYU's SPARC program offers a robust introduction to robotics and coding, which is ideal for high school students with strong academic foundations and an interest in STEM. 

While the program provides excellent educational content and hands-on experience, it is less selective and prestigious than some other options. However, if you’re looking to enhance your practical knowledge of robotics and enjoy an immersive learning experience, SPARC is definitely worth considering! 

We especially recommend the program if you’re looking for an introductory robotics and computer science course. After introductory programs such as this, you could consider applying these skills to produce projects or research papers through programs such as Veritas AI! 

If you’re looking to build unique projects in the field of AI/ML, consider applying to Veritas AI! 

Veritas AI was founded by Harvard graduate students, and through the programs, you get a chance to learn the fundamentals of AI and computer science while collaborating on real-world projects. You can also work 1-1 with mentors from universities like Harvard, Stanford, MIT, and more to create unique, personalized projects. In the past year, we had over 1000 students learn data science and AI with us. You can apply here!

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