Summer Camp FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions about the DNA Center's Summer Camps
Are there specific class or grade requirements to participate in a summer program?
No outside knowledge is assumed or required. All we ask is a curiosity and love for science!
My child will be entering 7th grade, can they attend a residential camp?
Unfortunately, no. The residential camps are intended for students who have completed grades 7 prior to the summer. Please contact us directly if you think an exception may be warranted. Please consider a Workshop that is intended for younger students!
My child would like to attend a residential camp, but would like to commute to and from campus. Would it be possible to attend without staying in the dorms?
Unfortunately, no. If a child registers, he or she will need to stay in the dorms on campus. They will not be permitted to leave and return to campus during the camp, even with a parent/guardian. We apologize for any inconvenience, but in order to insure all students' safety we do not allow students to "check-out" during the camp. In the event of a personal emergency, you may move-out early, but will not be permitted to return. You could also consider the overnight optional workshop which would allow for commuting back and forth.
What time zone is Notre Dame part of in the summer?
Notre Dame is part of Eastern Standard Time and observes Daylight Savings Time. The time at Notre Dame is the same as New York City, Atlanta, or Indianapolis (and one hour ahead of Chicago).
Are there any discounts available?
While there are no official discounts, we do offer scholarships throughout the year at various school functions (including science fairs!). Additionally, for those with demonstrated financial need, there are a limited number of partial scholarships. If you believe you qualify or want additional information, please contact AsstDNAcenter@nd.edu.
Are the dorms coed?
No, male and female campers will be housed in separate dorms.
Are the dorms air-conditioned?
No, unfortunately they are not! All campers are encouraged to bring a fan. Luckily, there will be lots of activities throughout the day and evening so there will not be much time spent in the dorms.
Do I need to bring my own sheets, pillow, towels, etc?
Yes, linens are not provided.
Will my room have its own bathroom?
No. Each room will have a sink, but bathrooms will be shared with other rooms on the floor.
Are there any dress code requirements for lab work?
Yes, the University requires all individuals to wear the following while in the lab:
- Closed-toe, closed-heel shoes: You may bring sandals for non-lab activities, but lab-approved shoes must be worn during lab time.
- Ankle-length pants or skirts: Sweatpants, track pants, or pajama pants can be worn over shorts while in the lab. Extra pants can be left in the lab for the next day.
Feel free to contact us for further clarification.
What will happen if my completed forms or check is not received within the required two week window?
Registration will be held as long as the required forms and payment are received within two weeks. After that, your registration will move to the end of the list, and the desired camp may be full by the time materials arrive. In that case, registration can be transferred to another available camp or payment will be returned. To avoid this, please submit forms and payment promptly after completing the online registration.
Does the DNA Catalyst Camp cover different material than the DNA Odyssey Camp?
Although the Catalyst Camp is shorter, it shares some experiments with the Odyssey Camp. Because of this overlap, campers should attend only one of these programs, even in consecutive summers. An alumni camp may be offered in the future, but for now the two programs are mutually exclusive.
Can my student go to both the Catalyst and Odyssey camps?
No.
Can my student go to both workshops?
Yes!
Can my student go to the Odyssey Camp and a workshop?
No.
Can my student go to a Catalyst Camp and a workshop?
Reach out!
Additional questions? Don't hesitate to contact us either via telephone 574-631-1506 or email.