Hosted at the University of Maryland, College Park | July 12 - 19, 2025

Register Today

FAQ

Will students be sleeping on-campus?

Yes, our summer camp is a sleep-away camp with all students staying in the UMD dorms. We offer a commuter option for local families interested in dropping off and picking up their student(s) each day.

Do classrooms have computers, or will students need to bring their own devices?

While PDA may be able to provide a computer, if necessary, students are expected to bring their own work devices.

What classrooms will students be learning in?

Academic facilities will be selected in close proximity to the residential and dining facilities. Please stay tuned for additional details.

Is there a campus map for families to look at?

The University of Maryland has a publicly available campus map that you may view here.

My child has no debate experience. Will this camp be a good fit?

Absolutely! Many of our students have no debate background prior to joining PDA. For our camp, students are divided into groups based on their grade level and experience. Our teachers are debate experts who have helped students of all backgrounds excel in debate. In addition, our curriculum is robust, with age/experience appropriate learning at all levels.

What will my child learn at the PDA summer camp?

Potomac Debate Academy teaches middle and high school students of all levels the skills necessary to excel in competitive debate, while promoting personal growth. Debaters will learn how to speak publicly and confidently, research topic areas, think critically about various perspectives and ideas, collaborate with peers, and more!

What time do students depart?

Families should plan for a shuttle will drop students off at BWI by 4:00 PM on the final day of camp, depending on which session your student is enrolled.

What time do students arrive?

Families should plan for students to arrive at the University of Maryland by 4:00pm ET the first day of camp.

 

Shuttles will pick students up from BWI between 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM at two different times to be set after we have more flight information from traveling students.

What do dormitory amenities include?

Upon arrival, each student will receive a linen package that includes a blanket, a pillow, sheets, and a towel.

What dorms will students be staying in?

While subject to change, students will likely be staying in Prince Frederick Hall at the University of Maryland, College Park.

My child has debate experience. How will this camp help them grow?

Students are divided into groups based on their grade level and experience, allowing more advanced debaters the opportunity to work with coaches and peers that challenge them. In addition, our curriculum is robust, with age/experience appropriate learning at all levels. Students with debate experience will prepare for the anticipated September/October PF topic, gain hands-on experience doing debate rounds and drills, learn advanced debate strategies, skills, and more.

What recreational facilities do students have access to?

Students will be able to purchase a day pass ($7) or a week pass ($35/student) to access the University of Maryland recreation center. This includes the indoor/outdoor pool, basketball, racketball, dodgeball, track, and more. Students will also have access to separate activities for additional fees. Please note: young students cannot use cardio or weight training equipment.

Where will students be eating?

Students will eat at the dining hall nearest to their assigned dorm. As dorm accommodations are still being planned, dining hall location is either the South Campus Dining Hall or the Yahentamitsi Dining Hall.

What does campus security look like?

University of Maryland has its own police department actively stationed on campus (an arm of the MD state police) on bikes, foot, and in patrol cars. Safety cameras are set up in public areas around campus. The police department is ~ 15 seconds and the fire and rescue department is ~20 seconds from any campus entrance.

Are there accommodations for students with food allergies or intolerances?

Students will be able to self-select their meals from a wide variety of options at the dining hall. A sample menu is pending.

What meals does tuition include?

Tuition includes three meals per day: breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

What are Potomac Debate Academy’s policies and procedures regarding COVID-19?

Please review our full COVID-19 policy, here.

What are the tuition fees for summer camp?

Our tuition is $2,599 which includes the cost of meals, dorms, and instruction for 8 days. 

Can’t find what
you need?

Send us a message to learn more

By submitting, you agree to our Privacy Policy here.

Hosted at the University of Maryland, College Park | July 12 - 19, 2025

© 2024 by Potomac Debate Academy. Potomac Tutoring LLC.

privacy policy

3204 Tower Oaks Blvd, Suite #225, Rockville, MD 20852