Etapa SigmaCamp is a unique experience for young science enthusiasts
Are you a young person passionate about technology, science, mathematics, engineering, and related fields, but haven’t discovered Etapa SigmaCamp yet? Stop everything! This immersion is one of the main STEM events for young people aged 14 to 17 in Brazil and a must-have for any student aiming to pursue a future in this area.
What is Etapa SigmaCamp?
Etapa SigmaCamp is a summer program created exclusively for talented young people aged 14 to 17—between middle and high school. Its goal is to stimulate scientific curiosity, critical thinking, and creativity—essential skills for anyone wanting to enter the fields of science and technology.
Originally created in the United States, SigmaCamp came to Brazil through an initiative by Sistema Etapa, which aims mainly to uncover new national STEM talents and promote cultural exchange between teachers and renowned professionals from around the world. To give you an idea, in the last edition, we hosted speakers from several countries, including England, Russia, Israel… among many others!
A True Immersion into the STEM Universe
I know saying that Etapa SigmaCamp is "unlike anything you've ever seen" is a major cliché… but in this case, it’s true! This event offers a full immersion into the STEM universe, with theoretical lessons and practical workshops in various areas, ranging from physics to programming and robotics.
All of this comes with access to advanced tools and guidance from expert mentors, with international experience and careers in renowned universities, state-of-the-art laboratories, and respected research centers. Beyond practical and theoretical knowledge, these professionals inspire students to seek creative solutions based on real-world problems and to develop skills essential for the technology and innovation market.
4 Reasons to Participate in Etapa SigmaCamp
Expand Your Network
Networking is one of the most important aspects of the job market today, including in science and technology. Even if you’re not yet old enough to start working, Etapa SigmaCamp allows you to build connections with other young science enthusiasts who will, sooner or later, be present in the workforce.
Moreover, you will be in constant contact with leading figures in these fields, who may recognize your talent and even provide professional opportunities—both inside and outside Brazil—in the not-so-distant future! For those still in the phase of “deciding what to do in life,” this event can also be a turning point.
Many former campers mention that Etapa SigmaCamp was decisive in choosing their career and gaining admission to renowned universities. This is because exposure to advanced content (much of which is studied at university), collaborative activities, and mentor guidance help participants discover their talents and set future goals.
One student impacted by this experience, Murilo Vichinsky Schmidt, a camper at Etapa SigmaCamp 2024, shares his journey:
“The classes taught me a lot about subjects I’m interested in, like technology and mathematics. I came here specifically to learn more about these topics from the teachers, and this goal is being achieved, which will be very beneficial for my future. Besides the content itself, another benefit is practicing English, which is very important to me. On top of that, networking—meeting new people, making connections, and even seeing people I’ve met before—was great. Everything was very well organized, with activities all the time and so many different experiences.”
Development of Socio-Emotional Skills
More than technical knowledge, Etapa SigmaCamp promotes personal growth. Living with young people from diverse backgrounds encourages empathy, communication, leadership, and resilience. Group challenges teach participants to handle diverse opinions, make decisions, and work effectively in teams—skills increasingly valued today.
Access to Innovative Methodologies
Etapa SigmaCamp follows a dynamic and collaborative methodology, based on projects and problem-solving. In this approach, students have the opportunity to apply what they learn in real contexts, developing innovative and creative solutions. Activities include:
- Hands-on laboratory experiments;
- Programming and robotics competitions;
- Meetings and lectures with distinguished scientists;
- Internal scientific challenges;
- Cultural and recreational experiences.
This learning model makes the process more relevant and contributes to strengthening the campers’ intellectual autonomy.
Real Impact on Participants' Lives
The experience at Etapa SigmaCamp resonates far beyond the event week. Students show greater interest in STEM, improved academic performance, and more confidence to face new challenges. Additionally, many continue participating in science fairs, academic competitions, and research projects, becoming knowledge multipliers in their communities.
How to participate in the next Etapa SigmaCamp?
Applications for the Etapa SigmaCamp 2026 selection process are currently closed. However, there will be another edition in 2027. If you want to participate, you can subscribe to our newsletter to receive event information first-hand. Also, follow @sistemaetapa on Instagram to keep up with news, tips, and curiosities related to the STEM universe.