Frequently Asked Questions

Can I choose my roommates?  How many people are in each room?  What are the dorms like?

You can request up to two other individuals with whom you can share a room.  We cannot make promises that you will be placed with your top choices, but we can attempt to place you with a friend.  Depending on enrollment and room availability there could be 2-4 people in each room (most likely 3). No co-ed dorms exist.  Students will be housed in Brown Hall.  Students need to provide their own bedding and bathroom linens. It is also wise to bring a fan or two (as the rooms can get very hot) and an alarm clock. (because mornings always seem a bit too early) Bathroom and shower facilities are located on each floor, shared between three to four rooms.

Can I choose my duo partner? 

Possibly.  Please indicate your preference in your registration. 

Is there time during camp for non-speech fun?

Speech is Fun!  CSI participants work very hard.  Our commitment is to be sure that you leave here as a different kind of debater.  But there is some time for socializing and fun activities planned into the schedule.   

Can my parents visit me?

You are only here for one week so we prefer not, but as long as the Institute Director knows the details of your outing, we are happy to release you for an evening out with the parents or other close family and friends. 

Can I cash checks on campus?   

Yes, according to the Concordia business office you can cash any check with them as long as you have a valid ID with you (driver’s license, learner’s permit, passport, etc).  There is an ATM on campus for quick cash withdrawals.  If it is an emergency, a counselor would be happy to take you to a Wells Fargo or other national chain in town if necessary.  Concordia Speech Institute does not take credit card payments for tuition.  Credit cards (with the exception of the bookstore and ATM withdrawal) can not be used on campus. 

What is security like on campus? 

Concordia's campus security system employs a professional staff of security officers, who protect property, enforce laws and regulations, and, most important, help protect personal safety throughout the college campus.  A security escort is provided on campus. If you would like an escort, notify campus security at 299-3123.  The Security office is open 24 Hours a Day. In addition CSI participants are required to travel in groups around campus and to check-in with their pod leaders at various points during the day. 

Can I get mail while at the institute?  Where should my family and friends mail stuff?

One of the best parts about attending any summer sleep-away institute is getting mail from home.  All mail should be addressed:  

Name of Participant

c/o Concordia Speech Institute

Concordia College

901 8th St. S.

Moorhead MN 56562

Mail will be collected from the on-campus post office facilities weekdays before 2 pm.  Mail will be distributed in the afternoons by institute staff.  Postage stamps and certified mail services are available at the post office window, which is open until 2 pm, Monday through Friday. Other postal services such as c.o.d.s, money orders, and registered and insured mail may be obtained at the Moorhead Post Office.  We strongly encourage parents not mailing anything prior to the last three days of camp.

What medical facilities are available in case of emergency?

Emergency service is available at local hospitals and clinics, the nearest medical facility being Merticare in Fargo which is a 5-minute drive from campus. All medical records are considered privileged information, released only with the signed consent of the parents/guardians.  Students who attend CSI are required to have health-care coverage, and proof of coverage is asked for during registration.  Students with special medical needs (asthma, diabetes, allergies, etc.) are asked to bring medical supplies they might need in case of emergency (epi-pen, emergency inhaler, insulin shots, etc) and to keep staff informed about the use and location of these items at all times.  An institute vehicle is available at all times in case of emergency.

What should I do if I want to buy a Concordia College T-shirt to remember my time at CSI? 

Students have the option of purchasing CSI apparel.   Shirts are available in a variety of styles and colors and can be ordered during on-campus registration, to be delivered by the end of the institute.  The bookstore features debate and personal supplies, and doubles as a gift shop. Items uniquely Cobberesque -- sweatshirts, T-shirts and mugs, posters and memo boards, and gifts for special occasions.

 Snacks and Food on Campus?

The Anderson Dining Center was created in 2007 as part of a major remodel on campus.  There are 12 different stations providing ethnic, vegetarian, sandwiches, healthy and then the traditional fare of hamburgers, pizza and french fries.  An extensive salad bar features fresh fruit, vegetables and prepared salads, while at the sandwich bar you may make your own sandwich.  Located in the Knutson Center, the Korn Krib sells candy, beverages, snacks, pizza, sandwiches, coffee and baked goods. 

 Where do staff members come from? 

CSI staff is comprised of a combination of professors, high school teachers, current college competitors, and Cobber Forensics alumni. We try to keep our ratio low to ensure plenty of individual instruction and role modeling for each student.   Speech staff have clearly defined goals for the institute and their labs, and strong speech competitive and educational philosophies about debate.  For more information on the staff please click the STAFF link above.

Do I need to bring "tournament dress"?

Yes.  The end of the camp tournament is formal, like a real tournament with guests judges.