This course provides an overview of the development and expansion of the field of Modeling and Simulation and its impact on society and industry. Strategies, processes, and methods for conceptualizing modeling and simulation are introduced to serve as a foundation to cultivate interest and introduce technology skills and knowledge necessary for careers in modeling and simulation. Hands-on activities using an entry-level modeling and simulation development tool (i.e. Auto Desk, Solid Works or other comparable software) will be integrated into the curriculum. Regardless of topic sequencing, the culminating activity is the creation of a visual model to aide in the development of a professional portfolio.

2026 Audition Requirements

Here is what to expect and how to prepare for the audition for the 4-Year Modeling & Simulation Academy:

1. What to Bring to Audition Night:

✔ You must bring your digital portfolio on a flash drive that contains at least ONE of the following items: a detailed drawing (of an invention, or a cosplay costume/prop), an image of an original 3D print, an original (operational) program, an original model, or an original/modified invention. 

✔ See “C. Portfolio Submission Criteria” for more details.

✔ Completed “Student Interest Form.”

    2. Audition Sections

A. Technical Aptitude Task (10–15 minutes)

Technical Aptitude Task (10–15 minutes): You will identify hardware components such as Arduino models (Mega, Nano, UNO), Raspberry Pi, sensors (ultrasonic, infrared), computer RAM, SATA cable, SSD, GPU, and various USB types. The items you are asked about may be assigned at random. 

B. Spatial Reasoning Assessment (10 minutes)

• Create a Tinker CAD object (according to assigned criteria)
• Rotation and transformation puzzles
• Basic measurements and scaling
• Troubleshoot a simple device configuration scenario.

Tip: Follow directions carefully—accuracy matters!

C. Portfolio Submission Criteria

Submit a photo of one item that demonstrates your creativity and problem-solving skills. Examples:

• A digital model or drawing
• A robotics/animatronics project
• A Scratch/Python game
• A 3D print or physical prototype
• Something you built, fixed, improved, or designed.
  
  

Please bring a paper (or digital copy on your flash drive) of your 1 – 5 sentence explanations for each of the following questions:

1. What is it?
2. Why did you make it?
3. What challenges did you overcome?
   
   

D. In-person interview Question (1-2 minutes)

You will be asked one of the following questions:

1. “Tell us about something you built, improved, fixed, or created.”
   
   
2. “Why do you want to study Modeling & Simulation?”
   
   
3. “What is a computer problem you solved, and how did you solve it?”
   
   

E. Academic Review

We recommend students have:

• Level 4 or 5 in Math
• Level 4 or 5 in Science
• Level 4 or 5 in English Language Arts
  
  *** Teacher recommendations will support your application. ***