Frequently Asked Questions

Is there time during camp for non-debate fun?

Debate is Fun!  Kernels work very hard.  We do not believe those two statements are inconsistent.  Our commitment is to be sure that you leave after three weeks as a different kind of debater.  But there is some time for socializing and simply “hanging out” in the dorms, ordering pizza, and doing what you please.  Most days there is a period of time before supper in which debate work is banned.  That time may be used forrecreational activities like football, soccer, or such.   

Can I cash checks on campus?   

Yes, the Concordia  Business Office will cash your check if you have a valid picture ID.  There is an ATM machine on campus for quick cash withdrawals.  If it is an emergency, arrangements can be made to have a counselor transport you to a bank. 

Can I use a credit card?

Concordia Summer Conferences does not does not accept credit card payments so the Debate Institute cannot accept credit card payments for tuition or fees.  Concordia Dining Service also does not accept credit cards.  The campus bookstore, however, will accept credit cards.

Can I send mail to my child at the institute? 

One of the best parts about attending any summer sleep-away institute is getting mail from home.  All mail should be addressed to:  Name of Kernel, c/o Concordia Summer Debate Institute, Concordia College, Moorhead, MN 56562.  

Mail will be collected from the on-campus post office facilities weekdays before 2 pm.  There is no mail delivery on weekends.  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 COD mailings, money orders, and registered and insured mail may be obtained at the Moorhead Post Office.  We ask that mail not be sent three days prior to the child returning home.

What medical facilities are available in case of emergency?

A branch of the Meritcare Clinic System is across the street from the Concordia campus.  That clinic branch is open during normal business hours.  Emergency service is available at local hospitals and clinics, the nearest medical facility being Merticare Hospital 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 CDI 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 CDI? 

Students have the option of purchasing CDI 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.  Most of the learning materials you will need while at CDI, can be found in the Cobber Bookstore, located in the basement of the Normandy Center.  Purchases can be made in cash, by credit card (Master Card, Visa or American Express), or by check.  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.

 Where do staff members come from? 

CDI 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.   Debate staff have clearly defined goals for the institute and their labs, and strong debate competitive and educational philosophies about debate.  For more information on the staff please click the STAFF link above.

Who runs this whole operation?

CDI is managed by the Concordia College Communication Studies and Theatre Arts Department.  It is primarily an outreach opportunity for the co-curricular forensics program, and is partially supported by the Concordia College Summer Conferences office. 

What computer facilities will be available for student use? 

All Kernels will be given a username and password for use during the institute.  They will have full access to library and internet servers.  Concordia College maintains a policy of open access to all of its computing facilities. Users are expected to use this privilege in a responsible manner. Students may bring laptops but at their own risk.  When students need computers, they will have access to them.

Information For:

current students
faculty and staff		 parents
alumni		 high school students
admitted students