WFU Summer Immersion Program

Accommodation

Campers stay in university residence halls throughout their program week. Dorms are traditional college-style housing with shared rooms and communal bathrooms. Roommate assignments are made in advance, though mutual requests may be honored. Staff live on-site or nearby, providing 24/7 supervision and support throughout the week.

The residence hall experience helps teens practice age-appropriate independence — managing their schedule, living with a roommate, navigating the dorm environment, and participating in evening activities and hall events. Lounge areas, study spots, and outdoor gathering spaces offer plenty of opportunities to socialize and connect with peers from across the country.

Meals

All meals are provided in the university dining hall. Students enjoy a variety of daily options, including hot entrees, salad bars, vegetarian items, fresh fruits and vegetables, and made-to-order stations. Dietary needs such as allergies, gluten-free preferences, and other restrictions can be accommodated when noted during registration.

During days involving field experiences or off-campus programming, meals may be catered or provided in boxed format, ensuring students stay nourished throughout full academic days. The dining experience mirrors that of a real college student — flexible, varied, and designed to fuel both learning and activity.

Safety

The program emphasizes safety and supervision at every stage. Students are monitored around the clock by Resident Assistants, program staff, and university personnel. All academic sessions, field experiences, and recreational activities are chaperoned. Students are expected to remain with their assigned groups and follow a clear daily schedule.

A comprehensive Code of Conduct outlines behavior expectations regarding curfew, supervision boundaries, respect for others, and a strict prohibition on drugs, alcohol, smoking, and vaping. Violations may result in dismissal. Safety protocols extend to building access, overnight supervision, transportation for off-campus activities, and student check-in/check-out procedures.

Health & Medicine

Parents provide medical information and any healthcare needs during registration to ensure proper care plans. Staff are trained to support routine needs and medication management as authorized. Minor injuries or illnesses are handled on-site under staff supervision.

In the event of a more serious medical issue, students can access local medical facilities or campus health resources. Families are contacted promptly if medical care is required. The program maintains emergency procedures and communication protocols to ensure student well-being throughout the week.

Camp Traditions

Wake Forest Summer Immersion embraces traditions centered around community, academic curiosity, and college readiness. Each institute typically concludes with a capstone showcase — a presentation, demonstration, or final project highlighting what students learned during the week.

Evening activities are a signature part of the program. Students participate in social events such as sports, games, discussion panels, movie nights, and group mixers that foster friendships across institutes. Dorm-based traditions, peer mentorship moments, and bonding rituals help students feel part of a real campus community, creating memories that many participants carry into their college years.

The Summer Immersion program blends rigorous academic exploration with social growth and college-life experience. Students spend daytime hours fully engaged in their chosen institute, where they participate in lectures, hands-on labs, simulations, field visits, group projects, and skill-building workshops. Evenings are dedicated to recreation, community-building, and supervised free time, creating a balanced and enjoyable week.

Each institute is curated to give students a realistic view of what studying or working in a field might be like. By the end of the program, participants gain clarity about future academic interests, improved confidence, and new friendships with peers who share similar passions.