Guest Information Summer in Saratoga Getting to Skidmore
NYS Summer Young Writers Institute

2012 Young Writers Group

FAQ for 2013 NY State Summer Young Writers Institute


When do I have to arrive and what will happen when I get there?
Please plan to arrive at the Young Writers Institute Registration Table on the second floor of Case College Center on Wednesday, June 26, between 3 and 5 p.m. At registration you will receive a packet that will include a daily schedule and other valuable program information. You will also receive your room key and a Photo ID. Your Photo ID also serves as your dining hall meal card.  Check-out is by 11 a.m. on Saturday, July 6. 

What are the living accomodations?
Resident Assistants will be present on opening day to show you where your residence hall is and to help you get settled. Young Writers Institute students live together in a single residential hall, which will not be air-conditioned. If possible, it's recommended you bring a small fan. The Resident Assistants will live with you on the same floor. Each student will be assigned to a single or double room equipped with a bed, desk, chair, and dresser. We supply the following linens: one large bath towel, pillow, pillow case, two sheets, and a thermal blanket. If feasible, it is recommended you bring a wash cloth, heavy blanket, comforter, or sleeping bag.

What are the dining accomodations?
All meals will be served to the campus community in the Murray-Aikins Dining Hall. You will find a large assortment of foods, hot and cold entrees including vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free selections at every meal. Cooking in residence-hall rooms is prohibited. 

When do classes begin?
Classes begin on Thursday, June 27. A daily schedule of classes and other activities will be provided in your packet of information when you check-in at registration. Classes will be held on July 4. On Sunday, June 30 there will be a field trip to the Great Escape & Splashwater Kingdom amusement park. The cost for admission is included in the Institute's tuition. 

Will there be access to computers on-campus?
There are public computers in a number of locations on campus where you can access your e-mail and browse the Internet. Every residence hall room has Wi-Fi. We will have a computer lab reserved for a few hours each day. There you will have access to both computers and printers. You should bring your own flash drive. You may bring a laptop computer. 

What about telephones?
The College does not provide telephones in its residence halls.

Can I use the Sports and Recreation Center?
Yes. Program participants have access to an indoor pool, racquetball courts, and workout, fitness and weight rooms. Tennis courts are available on a court-available basis. 

How much spending money/cash should I bring?
We suggest $50 to $75. Students should bring cash or traveler's check issued in the student's name. Parents should not send personal checks, as students are unable to cash them. 

May I drive a vehicle to skidmore?
Students may drive to Skidmore, but they have to surrender their keys to the Resident Assistant upon arrival. Students are not allowed to operate a car, motorcycle, or motorbike while enrolled in the program unless accompanied by a parent. Students may not ride in cars of others, except by pre-approved parental consent. 

What other items should I bring?

In the meantime, whom do I contact if I have further questions about the Institute?
Christine Merrill: 518-580-5593 or summeryoungwriters@skidmore.edu. You can also find complete details on all the above, and more, in our Summer Information Guide, which you can find on our Web page: www.skidmore.edu/summer. Follow the link to "Guest Information." We strongly recommend that you thoroughly review the Guide, as it contains a great deal of valuable information.

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