Are You Up for the Challenge?
2025 High School C-CATS is now accepting nominations.
Our Goal
Spend the weekend exploring Clemson University while developing leadership skills and building friendships with other top performing students.
Our Outcomes
Clemson’s Challenge for Academically Talented Students (C-CATS) recruits outstanding students from SC, NC, and GA to participate in high-powered weekend retreats. Through team-building and academic sessions, students gain leadership skills, make lasting friendships, and improve their ability to think clearly and perform under pressure, all while having the time of their lives!
Tour Clemson University
Join current Clemson students for a guided campus tour to see all that Clemson has to offer, including dining hall, dorms, library, student center, recreation opportunities, and much more.
Digital Media Workshop
Improve your ability to think clearly and perform under pressure while working on projects assigned by a Clemson University professional.
Exciting Adventure Elements
Looking for a challenge?
Test your relational and leadership skills with our Giants ladder, Leap-of-faith, and other team building activities.
Photos of C-CATS
Testimonials from previous C-CATS
“I really enjoyed the whole thing, I wish I could come back every year. Thank you!”
“Bring me back next time, all of the counselors were awesome.”
“Best weekend to date, I met so many great people and discovered a taste of college.”
“The food was good and I liked being an orange and winning. Go Orange!”