Each summer, Girls Inc. of Greater Indianapolis’ Eureka! STEM Camp provides a space for girls to explore new opportunities, build confidence, and connect with peers in a supportive environment. From hands-on activities and career exploration to developing life skills and forming friendships, Eureka! STEM Camp fosters growth and curiosity in every participant. 

Below are reflections and experiences shared by girls who attended Eureka! last summer. Their words offer a glimpse into what makes this program so meaningful—and why we can’t wait to welcome them back again this year.

Azaria

Grade: 9th

Year at camp: 2

Career aspirations: Anime artist, lawyer, author, design a makeup line 

Azaria’s favorite part of camp this year was learning self-defense techniques from visitors from True Fit. She said, “I feel like it’s really important for young women to know how to fight and protect themselves.”

Being at camp makes her feel free, especially because the counselors treat the girls like young women rather than little kids. “Nobody judges you or makes fun of you. It feels safe,” she shared.

When asked what it means to be strong, smart, and bold, Azaria explained, “Strong means not letting others define you and pushing past your limits, both mentally and physically. Smart isn’t just academic; it’s also common sense and thinking outside the box. Bold…I get nervous talking to people I don’t know, but I’m working on it.”

Azaria is grateful for everything camp has offered her. “I’d say thank you for helping me see more potential in myself. I’ve always had low self-esteem, but camp has boosted my confidence.”

Brielle

Grade: 10th

Year at camp: 2

Career aspirations: Nurse or travel nurse 

Brielle loved learning about all the different careers that camp introduced her to. “I really like how many different people they bring in to talk with us. I’ve learned about so many jobs I didn’t even know existed,” she said.

Camp also gives her a space to feel comfortable discussing things that can be awkward, like women’s health. “Since it’s all girls, and everyone is going through the same things, it helps me feel like I’m not alone,” she explained.

For Brielle, being strong, smart, and bold is about facing challenges, problem-solving, and showing your true self. She also appreciates everyone who makes camp happen. She shared, “They don’t have to be here, but they show up for us, even on our bad days. And I’d also thank the people behind the scenes who I don’t know, because I know [camp] wouldn’t happen without them.”

Gabby

Grade: 10th

Year at camp: 3

Career aspirations: Medicine, pediatric surgeon, OBGYN

Gabby’s favorite camp experience was learning about drones and touring companies like Eli Lilly. “I didn’t know drone companies made that much profit or that you could get a license to operate one at 16. Their segment on diabetes and the medicines they make was really cool, especially when we got to see their building and the museum,” she said.

She enjoys the openness and diversity at camp. “It feels like a safe place to say whatever’s on my mind. Even if someone disagrees, there’s always someone who listens. I also like meeting girls from different backgrounds,” she said.

To Gabby, being strong, smart, and bold is all about confidence and being yourself, even when it might not be easy. She’s thankful to Miss Rona for encouraging her to attend: “She convinced me to sign up when I didn’t want to, and I’m glad she did! She should keep encouraging more girls to join.”

Natalie

Grade: 10th

Year at camp: 3

Career aspirations: Nurse, but open to anything in the medical field

Natalie’s favorite part of camp was meeting new people and having space to talk about anything, even topics that can feel uncomfortable. “At camp, everyone can share their thoughts without feeling judged,” she said.

She’s noticed a big change in herself since attending. “When I first came here, I was quieter and stuck with my cousin, but now I talk to more girls and participate more,” she shared.

For Natalie, being bold means speaking up, and she feels camp has helped her grow in  boldness and confidence. “With Girls Inc. Indy, we can really reach for these qualities.” 

She’s especially grateful for the women who guide and support her at Girls Inc. Indy. “Thank you for being like a group of mother figures. Sometimes you don’t have that at home. Coming to Girls Inc. Indy and having people tell you that you’re powerful has been amazing. These women guide me, support me, and help me grow, and I’m really grateful for that.”

S’journey

Grade: 9th

Year at camp: 2

Career aspirations: Go to culinary school, own a restaurant 

S’journey loved making new friends at camp, even outside of her original friend group. “On the first day, I thought I’d stick with my same friend group from last year, but I ended up meeting new people, including girls from Year 1 and Year 3,” she said.

Camp also gave her a chance to explore drone technology and think about future careers. She described feeling happy and excited throughout the experience. 

When talking about what it means to be strong, smart, and bold, S’journey shared, “I think it means being your own person instead of just following everyone else. It means being different, unique, and independent.”

S’journey is grateful for all the little moments that made her feel special at camp. She said, “Thank you, Girls Inc. Indy, for the good moments I’ve had [at camp], for making me feel special, and for cheering me up when I’m feeling down.”

Each year, Girls Inc. Indy offers empowering summer experiences. Summer camps are at the heart of these programs, providing opportunities for youth ages 5-18 to engage in fun activities, embrace their uniqueness, and build confidence in a supportive environment. 

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Sign up for Eureka! STEM Camp! Registration is open for 2026 summer camps. To learn more and register, visit our website.