1. When is the last day to apply to the program?
    • The Conservation Academy application process is on a first come first serve basis. Once we have reached full capacity we will no longer be able to accept applications.
  2. What if my child is too young to fly to camp by themselves and must be registered as an unaccompanied minor?
    • Our staff will take down all of your students arrival information and one staff member will meet each student arriving by plane at their arrival gate.
  3. Can I visit my child at the academy? 
    • Visitation during the camp experience is not impossible, but we strongly recommend that you allow your student to be immersed in the Conservation Academy experience on Duke’s campus. Visitation could cause a disruption to your students experience. However, with advanced notice and approval from the director, visitation is possible.
  4. What will my child be eating at the academy?
    • The students will eat three meals a day at various cafeteria facilities on Duke University Campus. Counselors and the Director help to make sure all students are eating a variety of healthy and satisfying meals.
  5.  What if my student has a dietary restriction or allergy?
    • We do our best to work with the Duke University dining facilities to accommodate most dietary restrictions and allergies. Please make sure to note this on your application form and call to discuss your students allergy or dietary restrictions with the Conservation Academy Director (773) 263 -7619.
  6. Is the Conservation Academy prepared to deal with homesickness?
    • Yes! While homesickness is not a common occurrence, it does happen from time to time. Our staff go through an extensive training preparing them to help your student through any difficulties they face at camp, including homesickness.
  7. How much does the Conservation Academy cost? Do you offer financial assistance?
    • The Conservation Academy runs two separate programs. Tuition for each one week program (water or forest conservation) is $2,000. If a student desires to attend both weeks the total tuition is $4,000.
    • Unfortunately, at this time we do not have any donations or grants to offer financial assistance.
  8. What clothing should my student bring to the Conservation Academy?
    • A packing list will be included in the materials we send to each family after a student is accepted into the program. Remember that we spend a good amount of time in the field, so old clothes and shoes that can get muddy are important to pack!
  9. Can my student have their cell phone with them?
    • Students may bring their phones with them, however the program will regulate when they can use them. If there is an issue with a student using their phone outside of specified hours we will deal with this on a case by case basis.
  10. Where will my student be staying?
    • All academy students will be housed in Duke University dorm rooms. Students should expect to have at least one roommate and rooming assignments will be made by the director.
  11. What happens if my student gets ill during their week at the Conservation Academy?
    • The Conservation Academy is located right on Duke University’s main campus. We have access to both a walk-in clinic and hospital within walking distance of our dorm facilities. If a student is in need of medical attention while attending the Conservation Academy, our staff will be in contact with the emergency contacts listed and ensure that your student gets the best possible care.