Summer Camp FAQs
Camp Application and Registration Information
APPLICATION PROCESS
How do campers apply to participate?
Fill out and submit your application using our online form. The application is to be completed by BOTH the parents/legal guardians and camper. The camper MUST complete the essay portion of the application. Any questions may be directed to BellisarioSummerCamps@psu.edu.
Eligibility
- Campers must be between the ages of 14 and 18 as of July 1, 2025
- Campers should have an interest in the communications field
How much does camp cost?
When you submit your application, no payment is required at that time. Once your application is reviewed and you receive your acceptance letter, additional registration and full payment is required.
- Early Registration: $1,500 (Deadline: April 27, 2025)
- Regular Registration: $1,700 (Deadline: May 31, 2025)
When will parents or legal guardians be notified of acceptance?
Acceptance letters will be emailed to parents or legal guardians in mid-April. Please note there is no waitlist for camp selections. If a camper is not selected for their first choice of camp, they will be considered for their second choice, based on availability.
Once a camper is accepted, parents have two weeks to respond with their decision. If we do not hear from you within this time frame, your spot will be offered to another camper.
What is the maximum number of campers per camp?
- Broadcast Journalism, 20 campers
- Film Production, 20 campers
- Social Media & Content Creator, 12 campers
- Visual Storytelling, 20 campers
Are there any scholarship opportunities?
Yes. To be considered for a scholarship, applicants must submit an essay of 500 words or less.
REGISTRATION PROCESS
After acceptance, what Is the registration process?
The registration process is done online via the Penn State Conferences and Institutes. Penn State Conferences and Institutes will directly contact parents or legal guardians with an official registration link for payment. Penn State Conferences and Institutes will be your main point of contact for camp-related questions, including drop-off and pick-up times, registration forms, and items to bring to camp. If you have any questions, please contact Katy Colby at krc178@psu.edu.
Please note that your registration will only be confirmed upon receipt of payment. Failure to submit all necessary documentation will result in your spot being given to another camper.
What is the cancellation/refund policy?
Refund policies for camp cancellations are as follows:
- If you cancel 61 days or more before the camp start date, you will receive a 100% refund.
- If you cancel between 31 and 60 days before the camp start date, you will receive a 30% refund.
- If you cancel less than 30 days before the camp start date, there will be no refund.
CHECK-IN PROCESS
Parents and legal guardians should plan for the following schedule:
- Check-In
Sunday, July 6, 2025
Time: 1 - 3 p.m.
Parents/Legal Guardians Session: 3 p.m. - Final Session/Presentation
Friday, July 11, 2025
- Checkout: Friday, July 11, 2025
Time: 3 p.m.
What happens after check-in?
Upon arrival, parents and campers will have the opportunity to bring their personal belongings to their assigned rooms. Camp activities will begin promptly at 3 p.m. There is an optional session for parents and legal guardians at 3 p.m.
CAMP WEEK QUESTIONS
Is this a day or overnight camp?
This is an overnight camp that runs for a week from Sunday to Friday.
What are the daily hours of the camp activities?
Activities typically begin at 8 a.m. and end between 8 p.m. or 9:30 p.m. depending on the camp.
Are meals provided during the camp?
Yes, all meals are included in the camp's cost. Campers are welcome to bring snacks to keep in their dorm rooms. Each door room has a small refrigerator and a microwave.
How are dietary restrictions/food allergies handled?
Campers are required to specify any dietary needs during the camp registration process. All dietary accommodations will be documented and implemented.
How will housing be provided?
Campers participating in the program will have on-campus housing. Each room will be shared by two campers, and there will be separate housing facilities for males and females.
How will roommate assignments be determined?
Roommate assignments are handled by our program staff, who carefully consider various factors to ensure a positive living experience for all campers. If you have a specific roommate in mind who is also enrolled in the same camp, you can make a request to room with them, and we will do our best to accommodate your request. Occasionally, due to the number of campers enrolled, some individuals may be assigned to a single room. If you have a preference for a single room, please submit a special request in advance for consideration.
What supervision will be provided in the dorms?
Campers will have constant supervision from camp counselors to ensure their safety and well-being. The housing commons desks are staffed 24 hours a day to provide assistance and support. Additionally, university staff members will be residing in the building to promptly address any issues or emergencies that may arise.
Who are the counselors and instructors for the camp?
The camp counselors are dedicated and responsible Penn State University campers who have successfully completed background clearances. They are committed to providing round-the-clock supervision and support for the campers. The camps are led by experienced and knowledgeable Penn State faculty and staff members who have also obtained all the required clearances, ensuring a safe and enriching experience for all participants.
Do campers need to bring any equipment?
Campers do not need to bring any equipment. All necessary cameras, computers and technology access will be provided.
Will transportation to campus be provided?
Campers are responsible for transportation to and from the University Park campus. Transportation throughout the duration of the camp is provided.
How will campers' medications be handled?
During check-in, campers' medications will be collected and parents will need to submit the daily medication log. The collected medications will be kept in a lockbox, which will be in the possession of the lead counselor at all times during the camp. If you have medication that needs to be refrigerated, please contact Katy Colby at krc178@psu.edu.
How will medications be administered?
Campers are responsible for self-administering their own medications. Counselors are not permitted to administer any medications, including over-the-counter ones (such as Tylenol, Advil, cough medicine, etc.).
Will campers earn college credits for participating?
Campers will not earn college credits for participating in the summer camp.
Accommodations
If you require special accommodation, please reach out to Katy Colby at krc178@psu.edu to address any specific needs your child may have.