This summer, local teens are trading in lazy days for a dynamic learning experience at Durham College’s (DC) Summer Shorts workshops. Hosted by the Faculty of Media, Art & Design, these week-long workshops offer hands-on learning in Animation, Game Development, Broadcast Journalism, Digital Design, and Digital Photo and Video. Students like 13-year-old Bianca Bruni are learning in industry-leading computer labs and using state-of-the-art technology and equipment to build a digital portfolio.

Bruni, who is preparing for Grade 9 in September, said her decision to return to the workshop for an additional week was easy to make and that the skills she learned during Week One were built upon in Week Two. “The teachers are amazing and so friendly – I learned so much in 3D animation and wanted to learn more,” she said. “I have a lot more fun here than just being at home all summer.”

DC’s Summer Shorts provide participants several opportunities to find a workshop that suits their interests. Megan Pickell, Summer Shorts Program Coordinator, says there really is something for everyone.

“There are many different aspects of each workshop that may stand out to participants, such as building their own level for a video game, producing a live on-air podcast at our on-campus radio station, developing their own signature brand using the Adobe Creative Suite, or learning how to capture stunning photos and videos using our photography studio spaces and camera equipment,” she says.

During her time in the animation workshop, Bruni had mastered the intricacies of animation rigging, successfully manipulating the movements of a 3D dinosaur which she controlled through various computer functions.

“When you first look at the program it’s overwhelming,” said Bruni. “But we’re using only 20 per cent of the controls. Right now, we’re just learning the basics, and once you get the hang of it it’s not as difficult as it seems.”

Her journey through the workshop underscores the transformative power of hands-on learning and expert guidance provided at DC, equipping Bruni with an impressive digital portfolio, technical skills, and increased confidence in her animation capabilities.

Thanks to her experience, Bruni plans on enrolling in DC’s Animation – Digital Production program after she graduates high school, with her sights set on an animation career developing her own show or working for Disney. “Doing animation is really cool, but doing animation for a job is even cooler,” she said. “I would be really happy to wake up in the morning and go to my job as a 3D animator.”

Pickell emphasized the skills each Summer Shorts student learns throughout their time at DC. “They really learn to push themselves and explore their creativity in a digital space,” she said.

In addition to DC’s Summer Shorts, the college offers many summer camp opportunities for youth seeking new and fun experiences, including a variety of sports and cheer camps as well as Skills Ontario summer camp at DC’s Whitby campus that introduces young students to the world of skilled trades.