FAQ
Q: Given my record, what are my chances of admission?
A: It is impossible for us to state the chances of your admission with certainty. Your chances depend on your application and the overall pool of applicants. We give some preference to students who apply early, especially those who apply by the early decision deadline. We accept many debaters of all levels, even those who have no prior debate experience, and we have accepted over 90% of applicants in the last two years.
Q: How can students travel from the Colorado Springs airport to Colorado College campus?
A: Students travel from the airport to campus via Colorado College shuttle bus. NSD staff members wearing NSD t-shirts will meet students in the baggage claim area of the airport. On departure day, students will be transported to the airport by shuttle bus well in advance of their flight time.
Q: How can I send mail to a student who is currently at camp?
A: Mail sent to students and staff will be brought to the front desk at Loomis Hall if it is properly addressed. Colorado College has a large summer conference program and can only get mail to people when it is properly addressed.
Mail must be sent to the following address:
Student/Staff Name
Attention: National Symposium for Debate
C/O Summer Programs
14 East Cache La Poudre Street
Colorado Springs, CO 80903
There is a full service post office located on the lower level of the Worner Campus Center, if staff or students wish to send mail while at NSD.
Q: What should I pack?
A: The days may be warm, but the nights are often cool. The weather is quite changeable. Bring an umbrella or a rain jacket as well as a sweatshirt. There is a pool on campus which NSD students may use on free day, if open. Dress is casual, but should be in good taste. Debaters may choose to dress up for the second day of the NSD tournament. Bring enough clothing to suit your needs, including shower flip flops and extra shoes, an alarm clock, soap, toiletries, and other items needed for personal care. Be sure to bring debate materials commonly used, such as pens, timers, and flow pads, as well as a notebook for taking notes during lectures. Most students bring a laptop, though you are not required to do so. You will want to bring a USB key/flash drive, and if you intend to use your computer in the dorm, you should bring an Ethernet cable in case the wireless system is down. Be sure to bring money and/or a debit or credit card for personal purchases. Snacks can be brought from home or purchased near campus. Students may want to bring a water bottle.
The beds are extra long twin size. A fan, towels, mattress pad, sheets and blanket, pillow and pillow case are provided. There is a mini refrigerator in every room. Wash cloths are not provided. Alarm clocks are not provided. Cooking in dormitory rooms is not permitted.
