Kids get high-tech at camp

WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. (WLFI) - The creative juices are flowing on Purdue's campus as iD Tech Camp gets underway. Campers are learning everything from web design to programming, and even video game animation.

The week-long camp gives kids a hands-on experience with technology and shows them how their hobbies can turn into potential careers.

"I wanted to learn more about technology because that is what I want to do when I grow up and I want to build video games for people who are bored and don't have anything to do on their computers," camper Tyra Holland said.

"I love working with the computers, it's one of my favorite things to do," camper Christian Amstutz said.

The kids can stay in the dorms on Purdue's campus as they get immersed in C++, Flash, and Dreamweaver programs. 7th grader Justin Lueck is building his own gaming website. This is second summer at the program. He said he plans to come back year after year.

"Shreve Hall is kind of like a home away from home," Lueck said.

Counselor Drew McTighe said the kids enjoy the camp but it might just be even more fun for the adults.

"Everybody enjoys being here. We try to give them a fun time and keep it safe. For the most part, for myself and other instructors, we're big kids ourselves so we know how to have fun and enjoy ourselves here," McTighe said.

"It's fun and I have a friend named Jack and he likes to do a lot of challenges with me," camper Lily Stitt said.

iD Tech Camps are going on at 60 other universities across the United States and Canada.