Model City Builders

Build Experience. Reveal Promise.

Assembly House 150 is partnering with the University at Buffalo School of Architecture and Planning to host a summer camp in July 2025 to introduce high school students from a diversity of backgrounds to architecture and the city. The Model City Builders Summer High School Career Exploration program (MCB) brings together architecture, art, design, and the building trades to build skills through a project-based curriculum. Participants will also learn about the discipline and profession of architecture and visit important buildings and landscapes in Buffalo.

Learning Objectives

Develop the fundamental skill sets of architectural design through hands on making
Learn a variety of drawing, physical modeling techniques, and basic shop skills
Be introduced to the architecture and landscapes of Buffalo, as well as practicing architects
Experience what it is like to be in a college architecture course

"The Model City Builders program helped me as a woman in STEM to feel more empowered in my future and career. It definitely helped me decide that I truly do want to go into the architectural field when I go to college, and helped me boost my creativity, learn teamwork, and problem-solving."

-Faeza Rahman

Watch our Video Here!

MCB FAQ

MCB is for rising sophomore, junior or senior high school students of all backgrounds who are interested in working with their hands while exploring careers in design and building arts, including architecture, design, engineering, construction, and related fields. Ideal candidates are motivated to learn, dependable, can be on time every day, and commit to the entire program. No prior experience is required.
All students who successfully complete the course will receive a Certificate of Completion
MCB is a four-week summer intensive on Mondays -Fridays from July 8-August 1, 2025
Monday-Friday 8:00am-12:00pm
Week 1-2 at Assembly House, 150 Edward Street
Week 3-4 at Hayes Hall, School of Architecture and Planning, University at Buffalo
Fill out the application here before April 1, 2025. You will receive a confirmation email. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis until spots are filled. The program typically fills quickly. However, you may still get in if you apply late and spots are available.
Most participants are eligible to participate at no cost.
While MCB is not a job, most participants qualify for a weekly cash grant by check. The grant is attendance-based. Perfect attendance is required to receive the full cash grant each week. You’ll receive more information on this once you are accepted.
MCB is unique in that it does not take place in a traditional classroom setting. The Assembly House site at 150 Edward Street is an immersive learning environment. Participants work hands-on to build skills in small groups and independently. Hayes Hall is the icon of the University at Buffalo—and home to the School of Architecture and Planning—where students can experience what it is like to study in a campus setting. The city of Buffalo is an amazing classroom of design excellence that students will be able to tour.