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Frequently asked questions

What is Earlham Summer and who can attend?

The Earlham Summer program is a pre-college opportunity for rising high school sophomores, juniors and seniors. The program offers a college classroom experience and one college credit in an academic subject of the student’s choice, in addition to co-curricular opportunities. The Earlham Summer program is a six-day residential experience, occurring July 7 – July 12 (week one) or July 14 – July 19, 2024 (week two).

Where is Earlham Summer?

Earlham Summer programs take place on the Earlham College campus. Our 800-acre campus is nestled in the heart of Richmond, Indiana. Richmond and Earlham share a mutually beneficial connection, and our location allows for the best of both worlds—big city amenities aren’t far away, and outdoor activities abound.

Will I receive a college credit/transcript?

Yes, participating students receive one college credit once they have completed Earlham Summer and all required coursework. An official Earlham College transcript will be issued upon completion.

Where/how can I apply the college credit?

The credit received through Earlham Summer programs is transferrable to Earlham College as an elective credit. Other accredited institutions of higher education will determine transferability per their guidelines.

Can I stay for both weeks?

We do allow for registration for both week one and week two, depending on availability. The same course cannot be repeated, so alternate coursework would be required. Please also note that if a participant is signed up for both consecutive weeks of Earlham Summer programs, afternoon and co-curricular activities will repeat from week one to week two.

What is the cost of the program?

The residential six-day camp is valued at $2,000, but because of generous alumni and external donations, Earlham Summer programs are offered at a significantly reduced rate for summer 2024. Financial aid assistance is determined by need based on annual family income and household size. Families will be notified of their cost upon acceptance into Earlham Summer programs. The cost of the program includes all meals, housing, books and supplies and sponsored activities.

Discounts are available for siblings and current Earlham employees.

How many students attend Earlham Summer?

Approximately 120 to 140 total students attend the Earlham Summer programs. Each six-day session of camp includes 60 to 70 students. Class size is capped at 15 students each. The size of the class is intended to be small so that students receive individual attention from the teaching faculty.

What does a typical day at Earlham Summer include? Is there free time?

Students are required to attend all class sessions, as well as meetings and evening events. While there is some free time on certain evenings, the majority of the day is highly structured. Please note students may have to complete homework assignments or study during their free time. A tentative schedule can be found below.

TimeActivityLocation
8 a.m. – 8:45 a.m.BreakfastDining Hall
9 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.ClassVarious locations
10:30 a.m. – 10:45 a.m.Cell phone break 
10:45 a.m. – NoonClassVarious locations
Noon – 1 p.m.LunchDining Hall
1:15 p.m. – 3 p.m.Co-curricular activity/ off-campus
excursion
Various locations
3 p.m. – 3:15 p.m.Cell phone break 
3:15 p.m. – 4 p.m.Admissions activityLandrum Bolling Center
4 p.m. – 6 p.m.Independent/group workLibrary / Co-Lab / CST
6:00 p.m. – 6:45 p.m.DinnerDining Hall
6:45 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.Independent/group workLibrary / Co-Lab / CST
9 p.m. – 10 p.m.RA meetingsResidence Hall
10 p.m. – 10:30 p.m.Room checksResidence Hall

What forms are required to attend?

Starting in mid-March, a series of forms will be emailed in early spring. These forms include:


• Earlham College Risk, Release and Waiver of Liability Form for Minors Programs
• Earlham College Media Release for Minors Programs
• Camp Health History Form
• Earlham Release of Liability for AWC
• Earlham College Equestrian Barn Waiver
• Intent to Participate

All forms must be submitted no later than July 1, 2024 for participation in Earlham Summer programs. Failure to do so would result in removal from Earlham Summer programs. Questions and forms can be directed to [email protected].

Will participants be led or monitored throughout the program?

Yes, Earlham Summer participants will be led by camp counselors and resident assistants. Small group activities and large group activities will be utilized throughout the program.

Do I need extra spending money?

All costs associated with Earlham Summer programs are included in the fee schedule. However, a small amount of spending money ($25-40) for snacks, souvenirs and/or incidentals may be useful.

Can I bring my car?

While participants can drive themselves to Earlham Summer programs, they are required to stay on campus for the entire duration of the week. If you choose to bring your car, Earlham Summer staff will collect your keys during check-in and issue you a parking pass.

Do I need to stay for the entirety of the program?

Yes, all participants are required to stay through the entirety of the Earlham Summer program week they are registered for. The programs will conclude at 1 p.m. on Friday, July 12, and 1 p.m. on Friday, July 19, 2024, respectively. Move-out will occur from 1 – 3 p.m., immediately following the closing ceremony.

Is there a curfew?

Earlham Summer staff is trained to supervise and ensure the safety of all campers. We will have a curfew throughout the duration of the program. Students are required to be in their assigned room in the residence hall by 10:30 p.m. Room checks will occur every night.

What if I need medical attention during the week?

If an Earlham Summer participant becomes ill during regular business hours (9 – 5 p.m.), they will be taken to the Earlham College Health and Wellness offices. Students are required to bring their insurance card. If the student becomes ill during the evening, the program director will escort them to Reid Hospital. The emergency contact of the student will be contacted as soon as possible. Medications will be held and dispersed by Earlham College nursing staff, in conjunction with the Earlham Summer Associate Director.

What safety measures are in place?

Our staff is trained in camp protocols and procedures. In addition, Earlham College Public Safety is committed to creating and maintaining a safe and secure environment by providing effective, efficient and consistent service to every member of the college community.

Public Safety is an integral part of campus life, and officers are on duty 24 hours a day year-round. They patrol campus and respond to emergencies and requests for assistance.

Can I request a roommate?

Yes, students can request a roommate by emailing both names to [email protected].

What will the housing and food be like?

All Earlham Summer participants will be staying in the Earlham Hall residence hall on campus. Rooms will consist of a double room (with two XL single-size beds). Each occupant of the room will have access to a bed, closet, desk and nightstand. Linens will be provided. Please bring blankets and pillows, as well as towels for swimming and bathing.


Food services include 15 meals total during each six-day program. Students will be served dinner on Sunday, three daily meals on Monday through Thursday (breakfast, lunch and dinner), and breakfast and lunch on Friday.

All meals are served in the dining hall on campus with food provided by our college food service provider, Metz. Dietary issues or concerns should be directed in advance to [email protected] to share with dietary services.

When planning what to bring, what should I consider?

  1. Label belongings: Include your first and last name on as many belongings as possible. You’d be surprised how many campers bring identical items.
  2. Bring layers: Although summer temperatures can hit the 90s, Indiana evenings and mornings can be cool.
  3. Bring a few plastic bags: Clothes and shoes can get muddy, so pack some spare bags for such occasions.
  4. Contact the camp staff regarding medications: If your child needs to take medication daily or has allergies, the Earlham Summer program Daily Medication Log will be utilized to disperse all medications.

What else is good to pack for Earlham Summer programs?

  • Reusable water bottle
  • Jacket/sweatshirt
  • Multiple bathing suits & sunscreen
  • Pillow
  • Towels (shower & swimming)
  • Multiple sets of socks and undergarments
  • Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, deodorant, shampoo, etc.)
  • Shower caddy to keep toiletries together (or a shower lanyard)
  • Shower shoes or flip-flops 
  • Closed-toe tennis shoes, sneakers
  • Medication
  • Pajamas
  • Bug repellant
  • Pre-stamped envelopes, writing paper, pens
  • Raincoat/poncho
  • T-shirts, shorts, pants, and long sleeve shirt
  • A slice of home (photos, notes, stuffed animal, etc.)

What items should not be packed for Earlham Summer programs?

  • Video game devices
  • iPads, laptops, large electronic devices
  • Valuables (jewelry, watches, etc.)
  • Candles or other flammable items
  • Microwaves, toasters, appliances

What are the check-in/-out procedures?

Check-in will occur on Sunday, July 7, 2024 for session one and on Sunday, July 14, 2024, for session two. Check-in will occur in the Athletic and Wellness Center. (campus map) Parking is available in Lot F with overflow in Lot E. Parking passes will not be needed for families dropping off students; however, they are necessary for students who drive themselves and wish to park their car for the week. Passes will be issued at check-in for students.

Check-in time is 1 – 3 p.m. EDT. Early and late arrival are allowed by previous arrangement only. Parents/guardians will be allowed access to assist students moving into their rooms, but families will be asked to leave campus no later than 4:30 p.m. Check-out will occur on between 1 and 3 p.m. on Friday, July 12, for session one, and on Friday, July 19, for session two. Parents and guardians are responsible for picking up their designated student. Allowances for alternate pick- up arrangements cannot be made without prior approval by Earlham Summer staff in writing.

A closing ceremony will be conducted during the Friday lunch hour in the dining hall from noon to 1 p.m. Up to two guests per student are welcome to attend lunch/closing ceremonies. Guests must RSVP by emailing [email protected] no later than July 1, 2024.

PLEASE NOTE: STUDENTS WHO HAVE BEEN ACCEPTED FOR BOTH WEEKS OF EARLHAM SUMMER WILL BE REQUIRED TO LEAVE CAMPUS ON THE AFTERNOON OF July 12, 2024. PARENTS OR GUARDIANS ARE REQUIRED TO CHECK OUT THEIR STUDENT AND CHECK THEM BACK IN FOR THE SUBSEQUENT WEEK AS DESCRIBED ABOVE.

Will there be any off-campus field trips?

Yes, off-campus field trips will be included in the Earlham Summer programs. Bussing services will be provided by Richmond Community Schools.

What is the vaccination policy?

A complete record of vaccinations will be required prior to the arrival at Earlham Summer programs. Per campus policy and CDC guidelines, full vaccination against COVID-19 is strongly recommended but not required for attendance.


If a student becomes ill with COVID-19 while attending Earlham Summer, the emergency contact will be required to pick up the participant within the same day of notification.

What is the policy on alcohol and drugs?

Students are reminded that alcohol and drugs are NOT permitted. In addition, the possession and/or consumption of alcohol in public, within academic and co-curricular buildings, athletic and equestrian facilities, barns and maintenance facilities, and outdoor spaces or any other location is prohibited and will result in immediate removal from Earlham Summer programs. Parents/guardians will be contacted to pick up their student immediately if such an occurrence ensues.

EARLHAM ALERT:
We continue to monitor the effects of an industrial fire 1.1 miles from campus.
EARLHAM ALERT:
We continue to monitor the effects of an industrial fire 1.1 miles from campus.