During the summer months Hillsborough Community College becomes home to Kids College. This year they’ve added a Junior DJ Academy for students to learn to mix it up while having fun.
“I was very nervous because it was my first time as a DJ and I didn’t know what to expect,” said 12-year-old Miggy Sumagang.
Miggy Sumagang is one of the many campers using turntables and headsets to kick off their summer at HCC. They spent a week learning about DJ history and culture, DJ software and the technical skills needed to be the best when it comes to mastering the mix.
"I was nervous because I want to do a good job," said 11-year-old Ethan Boykin. "Especially when you hear the song over and over again so you kind of get tired of it but you’ve been practicing a lot so you try your best to do what you’ve been practicing.”
When the students weren’t breaking beats on the turntables, they were learning to break it down on the dance floor. The instructors teach the students some of the latest dance moves to pair with their authentic mixes to add to their creativity at the camp.
“It’s really cool and I love it,” said 7-year-old Olivia Kittendorf.
“[The students] learn fast and they’re much more agile on the computer than I am so they pick up things fast,” said instructor Ivan Montero. “I’ve learned a thing or two about my own programs from them as well."
Many of the students didn’t know what to expect when they arrived at the camp but after their experience mixing and scratching, they’re looking forward to mixing it up again next year.
For more information on HCC Kids College and camps: http://www.tampatraining.com/kidscollege/