Academics

Dive into the world of ASL with Deaf mentors, engage in ASL conversations with new friends, and embark on a journey of self-discovery.

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Overview

 

Session I (overnight camp): June 15 – 22, 2024

Program fee: $1,250

Session II (day camp): June 24 – 29, 2024

Program fee: $750

 

This exciting, 24/7 American Sign Language (ASL) immersion camp is designed for new signers who are at the beginner or intermediate level. This camp caters to deaf and hard of hearing students entering 10th – 12th grade, motivated to learn ASL and immerse themselves in the deaf culture and history at Gallaudet, just minutes away from the nation’s capital. Hearing campers are accepted if they pass our screening requirements and qualify as intermediate level or above signers. 

Here’s what you’ll be doing:

  • Experience what it is like to be a student on the Gallaudet University campus.
  • Learn ASL from a qualified Deaf instructor with a Masters’ degree in Sign Language Education.
  • Improve your budding ASL skills with the help of teachers and camp counselors.
  • Gain independence in communicating effectively with ASL. 
  • Self-discovery activities designed to help you learn more about yourself.
  • Participate in outdoor activities that help grow your confidence and leadership abilities.
  • Enjoy several field trips to explore Washington, D.C. attractions including the Washington Monument, Lincoln Memorial, the Smithsonian, Holocaust Museum, Union Station, and many other world-famous museums and monuments.
  • Ride until you drop at Six Flags – one of America’s best amusement parks!

For the first time this summer, we are offering TWO camp sessions. Session I (June 15 – 22, 2024) is an overnight camp that includes lodging, meals, and activities. Session II (June 23 – 30, 2024) is a day camp from 9 am to 5 pm daily (lunch is included). 

Campers are allowed to attend this camp for up to two summers. No camper will be allowed to return for a third summer.

 

Application Process 

Criteria: 

  • Deaf, Hard of Hearing or Hearing 
  • Entering 10th – 12th grade in the Fall 

You will need to submit an application online. Hearing applicants must submit a YouTube video in ASL responding to two prompts: 1) Why do you want to attend the Immerse Into ASL summer camp?; 2) If a box fell from the sky, what would be in it? Once you’ve completed the application, we will contact you if any further information is needed. Please do not make any payment or travel arrangements until you receive an acceptance letter from us. 

Upon acceptance, you will receive a camper handbook outlining camp preparation and  a registration form that will require you to complete the following: accommodations, dietary requirements, medical release, media release, transportation and participant agreement. 

All registration information and fees must be completed and paid by May 1st. 

We look forward to having you with us this summer! 

 

Vocational Rehabiilation counselors

Vocational Rehabilitation counselors will receive a written report that obtains a student’s summary of their experience and assessment results.

 

Download letter for VR counselor

FAQs

Policies and Information

Yes, we do have scholarships. In order to be considered for a scholarship, you will need to email us a letter explaining why you should receive the scholarship as well as a copy of your recent tax forms. We provide scholarships only to deaf and hard of hearing students. If you would like to request a scholarship, please contact us.

Yes. If your child is traveling alone, we will provide transportation to and from the airport for those using Reagan National Airport (DCA). You will need to make other arrangements if using Washington Dulles (IAD) or Baltimore-Washington International (BWI). Our Youth Programs staff will meet your child at the baggage claim upon arrival and accompany them to the ticketing area when departing. Additional details are in the Camper Handbook. 

Yes. We accept payment plans in installments. A minimum of a $250 deposit needs to be made ASAP in order to secure your child’s spot. Full payment is due no later than May 1, 2024 in order to guarantee your child’s spot in the program of choice. We will send an email to update you on the status of processed payments as well. Alternative payment plans may be discussed and agreed upon.

Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) support varies by state. You may ask your VR counselor for financial assistance in camp registration fee or transportation to/from DC. You may use this justification letter with your VR counselor. Please contact us if you need further assistance obtaining the VR support.

Preparing to Apply

Hearing applicants must submit a YouTube video responding to two prompts: 1) Why do you want to attend the Immerse Into ASL summer camp?; 2) If a box fell from the sky, what would be in it? Once you’ve completed the application, we will contact you if any further information is needed. 

Applications are accepted on a rolling basis. However, spots do fill up quickly, so the sooner we receive everything, the better. Registration and payment must be completed by May 1, 2024. 

Common Questions

Check-in usually is on the first day, and check-out is on the last day of the camp. Check-in times may vary due to flight times, but we ask that campers arrive between 12:00 pm and 4:00 pm on the check-in day. Campers must check out of the dorms no later than 10:00 am on the last day.

Reagan National Airport (DCA) is the closest to Gallaudet. We will have a camp counselor meet your child at the baggage claim and accompany them on their way to Gallaudet. Baltimore Washington International (BWI) may be used as a last resort.

Campers are up and at breakfast by 8:00 a.m. Classes start promptly at 9:00. After a noon lunch break, campers return back to classes for their afternoon sessions. During the evenings and weekends, we’ve planned for a variety of activities and social events, including an excursion into Washington, DC — exciting days filled with learning opportunities in an environment rich in cultural diversity! All of those activities will help you (or your child) immerse fully into ASL!

Campers are housed together in one of the dormitories on campus. 

Session II campers are responsible for arranging their own lodging. 

Campers are supervised 24/7 by Youth Programs staff and qualified camp counselors. Additionally, all dorms have Community Advisors on duty in the main office.

Program fee covers program instruction, housing, three meals a day, transportation, outings, recreation fees and camp t-shirt. We do not cover airfare/travel costs to and from Washington, DC.
One set of sheets, a pillow and a set of towels (towel and wash cloth) will be provided. Your child may also bring his/her own linens.
Yes, for snacks in the evenings and for off campus events such as the Six Flags outing. Campers will also be able to purchase snacks and Gallaudet attire at the campus bookstore.

Services and Support

There is a bookstore on campus which sells a variety of items typically sold in a small drug store. It is closed on the weekends.

Contact Us

Immerse Into ASL

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