Girls are gathering at Microsoft offices this summer to attend DigiGirlz High Tech Camp, day-long events designed to dispel stereotypes of the high-tech industry and encourage girls to pursue IT careers. DigiGirlz gives young people a chance to experience firsthand what it is like to work in a company on the cutting-edge of technology. One participant came away saying, "I thought you had to be a geek to work here, but this camp changed my mind."
Started in 2000, the camp continues to grow and evolve. Its goal is to educate and inspire girls by introducing them to the considerable opportunities and career choices available in the high-tech industry.
During the camp, the girls listen to executive speakers, experience technology demonstrations, look inside a computer during hands-on workshops, and hang out with an employee at work.
A testimonial from one teen girl shows you don't need to be a geek to attend the camp:
"From the first day, I was blown away from the support that everyone gave at Microsoft and how much everyone truly wanted us to be there. Even in the short time I was at Microsoft I learned so much about technology, but more about how people can achieve professions that they love and enjoy. Everyone's enthusiasm about their professions inspired me to find what I love and pursue it. Not only in technology, but in life."
2007 Digigirlz camps are scheduled for Charlotte, NC, Chicago, IL, Fargo, ND, Las Colinas, TX, Redmond, WA, Stony Brook, NY, and Reston, VA, near Washington, D.C. Get more information and apply online for the camps or listen to podcasts of the event.