SPARCS | University of Waterloo

Group of students working together on a computer science activity

Workshop overview

SPARCS is a unique, week-long, in-person workshop for Grade 9 and 10 students who are under-represented in computer science based on gender identity including women, non-binary, trans, agender, and Two-Spirit folx, among others. Hosted at the University of Waterloo, the workshop aims to spark interest in the field through lectures, labs, and hands-on activities covering diverse topics like cryptography, artificial intelligence, quantum computing and much more. Participants will have the opportunity to interact with university faculty, undergraduate students, and other expert educators to gain a more comprehensive understanding of computer science.

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This workshop was a well-structured and an eye-opening experience to not only student life but also getting great insight on careers in CS. Amazing people and I wish I could participate again.

SPARCS Participant from Canada

Workshop details

The SPARCS workshop is for students of gender identities who are under-represented in computer science based on gender identity including women, non-binary, trans, agender, and Two-Spirit folx, among others. Applicants must be in Grade 9 or 10, interested in mathematics and computer science, and currently attend a Canadian high school or middle school. Participants should not have attended a similar workshop or have had significant computer science exposure.

*Why this audience?

Mathematics and computer science are powerful tools, and diversity among mathematicians and computer scientists increases the potential for positive impact. One of the CEMC’s primary objectives is to promote greater gender diversity in mathematics and computer science. The CEMC encourages all people of gender identities under-represented in mathematics and computer science to apply to and participate in all of our events as we endeavour to make our events and accommodations welcoming to people of all gender identities in attendance.

Participants stay on campus at the University of Waterloo for a week and attend lectures and labs and participate in hands-on activities that introduce them to various facets of computer science.
The SPARCS workshop provides a unique platform to connect with like-minded students from across the country, enjoy social time with each other and interact with esteemed faculty members and University of Waterloo students to learn more about the subject.

This workshop is offered in-person from Sunday, May 4 to Saturday, May 10, 2025 at the University of Waterloo.

Participants stay on campus in student residences and are chaperoned by university students, who will also stay on-site. Most meals will take place at the residence eatery, which offers a range of dietary options, including vegetarian, vegan and halal meals. We do our best to accommodate all dietary needs.

Applications to the SPARCS workshop are closed now.
The CEMC will contact applicants about their selection status by the end of February. If accepted, applicants will then be required to fill out a registration form with more information about logistics and pay the applicable fees to attend the workshop.

There is no fee to apply for the workshop. There is a $250 registration fee to be paid after selected applicants have received their confirmation package. This fee includes any applicable taxes, meals, travel expenses (if applicable), and accommodation. Financial support to cover the cost of the workshop may be arranged for students in need. For more information about financial support, please contact Fiona Dunbar.

For any inquiries or questions, please feel free to contact us at cemc.events@uwaterloo.ca