Q. When does the camp run? What are the hours?
The camp runs 7 days a week. From Monday-Saturday, we run from 9AM-8PM with breaks for lunch and dinner. On Sunday, we run from 1PM-8PM. We can make arrangements if a student is unable to arrive at 9AM or if certain days are required off.
Q. Can I arrive early or stay late?
Typically, this is not possible. In exceptional circumstances, we may be able to work it out, but we cannot count on having dorm rooms or staff available.
Q: Do you offer financial aid?
This is one of our most asked questions. While we would like to offer financial aid, we our limited by our budget. Our camp typically does not generate a profit; our fees are set just high enough to cover our expenses and staffing to keep the SDI running. We are also confident that we have some of the lowest fees for any comparable summer debate camp.
Q. How do I pay?
We will required a $100 deposit within two weeks of the submission of your application. You will then receive an invoice outlining other payment options. We accept cash, card, or checks made out to “UMKC Summer Debate Institute.” After submitting your application, you will be sent an invoice outlining your final fees.
Q. Do I need a meal plan?
If you are a resident, a meal plan is included in your tuition. If you are a commuter, you may pick a cheaper price point that does not include meals. There are refrigerators available in the dorms and limited options nearby. Students can also purchase meals on a per-use basis at the cafeteria. The meal plan includes a variety of options for vegetarian, vegan, or other dietary restrictions.
Q. Are there restrictions for leaving campus and the dorms?
The UMKC campus is a very safe place, located in the heart of Kansas City. However, we take seriously our responsibility to ensure the safety of all attendees. Campers are restricted to the campus or stores that are within a couple blocks of campus. If there is a signed consent from a parent or guardian, there are limited time available in the afternoon or evening to venture further into the city. There are also longer blocks of planned time off.
Camp staff will make sure all residential campers are in their dorms each night, where they must remain until the following morning.
Q. Can I have a specific roommate or partner?
The application form has a spot for requesting roommates and partners. In nearly every instance, mutual requests will be honored.
Q. What do I need to bring?
Each room is furnished with two single beds, mattress pads, study desks, bookshelves, closets, and desk chairs. Sheets, pillows, and towels are not furnished. Students should bring a favorite pillow, sheets, blankets, towels, toilet articles, etc., as needed. Normal twin sheets will work. The air conditioner in the dormitory is quite effective. We suggest bringing at least one heavy blanket.
Because all students will be involved in researching and participating in a number of practice debates, it is important to bring the material and equipment you will need. You may bring stereos, hair dryers, computers and similar devices for your rooms.
Q. Do I need to bring money?
Students are not required to bring any money, as there are no required costs beyond tuition and travel. However, many students will bring money to purchase discretionary items (occasional meals outside of the Residence Halls, souvenirs in the union, and supplies from the general store on campus, etc.)
The appropriate amount of spending money varies for each student. We recommend that students bring cash and/or credit/debit cards as the form of spending money. Locations on campus do not accept personal or travelers checks.
Q. Can I go to church?
Yes, there is a late start on Sunday to accommodate religious services. There are many churches nearby for a variety of denominations. If a student needs a different day or time to be excused from lab, we will make accommodations as needed.