University of San Diego Summer Debate Camp

Accommodation

Campers stay in Maher Hall, a dormitory on the University of San Diego campus. Rooms feature private bathrooms and beautiful, panoramic ocean views, creating a comfortable, inspiring living experience. The dorm is well-maintained, and its residential layout fosters community among campers without compromising personal space. Evening and overnight supervision help ensure that campers feel safe and supported around the clock.

Meals

All meals are provided in the university’s Pavilion Dining hall. The dining program includes a variety of fresh ingredients, catering to dietary preferences like vegan and vegetarian. The cafeteria-style setting encourages community, giving campers a chance to dine together and recharge between sessions. Because all meals are included in the residential program, families don’t need to worry about food logistics — it’s all taken care of in a balanced, campus-style way.

Safety

Safety is a central priority at the camp. The residential format means staff are present in the dorms overnight, and all camp programming follows structured routines. Experienced instructors supervise debate labs and evening gatherings, and the campus itself offers a secure, controlled environment. Additional safety compliance costs are built into the registration, showing the camp’s commitment to meeting high standards of supervision and risk management.

Health & Medicine

Health procedures at the camp include secure medication management and access to first-aid support. Camp staff are trained to handle common health needs, and medical forms are required to ensure they know each camper’s individual conditions. If more serious care is needed, the university campus setting provides access to local medical resources. Throughout the session, staff emphasize hydration, rest, and wellness as part of daily life.

Camp Traditions

Tradition at the Capitol Debate camp is rooted in intellectual growth, community, and celebration. Each session culminates in a final presentation or showcase where campers deliver speeches or engage in debate rounds — a chance to show off what they've learned. Evening programs provide time for games, socializing, and reflection, allowing participants to bond over shared challenges. The camp’s structure encourages healthy competition, mutual support, and a spirit of growth. Many campers return year after year, citing both the friendships they make and the confidence they build as highlights.

The program at Capitol Debate San Diego is academically rigorous yet immersive. Each day, campers split their time between debate instruction, lab work, and collaborative preparation. Instructors teach core debate skills like argument construction, cross-examination, refutation, and persuasive closing. After classes, students rehearse and refine their ideas in smaller groups, applying their learning to real debate formats. In the evenings, the camp organizes social and recreational programming, allowing campers to rest, connect, and build community through activities, study halls, and shared experiences.