During Dakota Dreams Exploration Camps, students dive into hands-on, interactive Career Pathway Sessions designed to spark curiosity and inspire future possibilities. Each session introduces campers to a variety of career field, such as healthcare, technology, engineering, education, business, and skilled trades, through engaging activities and real-world demonstrations.

Dakota Dreams Career Exploration Camps offer students a unique opportunity to experience life on both a university and technical college campus. Campers stay in residence halls, eat in campus dining facilities, and explore classrooms, labs, and student spaces, getting a real feel for what college life is like. Through guided tours, hands-on activities, and interactions with faculty, staff, and current students, campers learn what it takes to succeed in both university and technical college settings. This immersive experience helps students build confidence, develop independence, and envision themselves as future college students in South Dakota.

Business tours give campers the chance to see what careers look like beyond the classroom. By visiting local companies and organizations, students experience real-world workplaces, meet professionals in action, and learn how the skills they’re developing connect to future jobs. These tours open students’ eyes to the career opportunities available in their own communities, help them understand what employers look for, and spark interest in industries they may have never considered. It’s an invaluable way to turn career exploration into a tangible, exciting experience.

Living and dining on campus is an essential part of the Dakota Dreams Career Exploration Camp experience. Campers stay in residence halls alongside their peers, creating a supportive environment where friendships are built and teamwork flourishes. Eating in campus dining facilities gives students a taste of independence and the variety of options available in college life. This immersive experience allows campers to fully engage in campus culture, practice responsibility in a safe setting, and picture themselves as future college students—all while having fun and making lasting memories.

After a day of hands-on learning and exploration, campers get to relax and connect during evening recreation activities. From games, sports, and campus events to team challenges and social time, these activities help students unwind, build friendships, and experience the lighter side of campus life. It’s the perfect way to balance education with fun, ensuring every camper leaves with great memories and new connections.

Our camp counselors are more than just supervisors—they’re mentors and role models who make the camp experience safe, welcoming, and fun. Each counselor is carefully selected through a thorough screening process and trained to ensure the highest standards of safety and engagement. They provide guidance throughout the day, support campers during activities, and help create an inclusive, encouraging environment where every student feels comfortable exploring new opportunities. With their energy and care, counselors play a key role in making Dakota Dreams Career Exploration Camps a memorable and meaningful experience.