Mock Trial and Debate for Middle Schoolers at Cornell University

Course Description: Mock Trial and Debate for Middle Schoolers at Cornell University

Trial Advocacy for Aspiring Legal Minds

Step into the world of law and order with our immersive Trial Advocacy course, designed to ignite the passion of budding legal professionals. This dynamic program introduces students to the multifaceted roles within the courtroom, from attorneys and defendants to judges and jurors. Through engaging, hypothetical legal cases, participants will delve into the intricacies of trial practice, honing skills that are not only vital for the courtroom but also invaluable in life.

Why It is a Great Choice

• Cultivates critical thinking and problem-solving skills essential for legal success.

• Enhances public speaking and persuasive communication abilities.

• Provides hands-on experience with trial techniques such as jury selection and cross-examination.

• Prepares students for real-world legal scenarios with practical applications.

• Encourages exploration of a potential career path in the legal field.

Location

Our program is hosted in a stimulating academic environment that fosters learning and growth. The campus is equipped with modern facilities designed to support interactive and collaborative learning experiences. Students will find themselves immersed in a community that values intellectual curiosity and professional development.

Course Description

Trial Advocacy Program

Through this course, students will gain a comprehensive understanding of the courtroom's key players and their roles. They will explore the fundamental elements of trial preparation and presentation, developing crucial skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, and public speaking. The curriculum covers persuasive opening statements, jury selection, witness testimony, cross-examination, handling objections, and crafting compelling closing arguments.

Upon completion, students will:

• Grasp the roles and responsibilities of trial participants.

• Develop strategic thinking for effective trial preparation.

• Elevate their courtroom presentation and public speaking prowess.

• Master essential trial techniques, including jury selection and managing objections.

• Apply learned skills to real-world legal contexts.

Admission Criteria

A keen interest in trials and the justice system is essential for success in this program. Prospective students must complete a Summer Institute application to be considered for admission.

Who Should Attend

This course is ideal for aspiring legal professionals eager to lay the groundwork for a successful academic and career path in law. It offers a foundational understanding that is crucial for those considering a professional future within the legal system.

Activities

Participants will engage in a series of interactive activities designed to simulate real courtroom experiences. These include mock trials, debate sessions, and public speaking workshops, all aimed at building confidence and competence in a legal setting.

Getting There

Detailed information regarding campus location, accommodation, and transportation will be provided upon acceptance into the program. We ensure a seamless experience from arrival to departure, allowing students to focus entirely on their educational journey.

Embark on this transformative legal adventure—where your passion for justice meets practical skill-building, setting the stage for your future success in the legal arena.

🛂 Visa Requirements for International Students

🌎 Students NOT in the U.S. Visa Waiver Program

If your home country is not one of the 40 countries in the U.S. Visa Waiver Program, you will need a B-2 Visitor Visa to attend the program.

The B-2 visa is for tourism and short-term study (under 16–18 hours of classes per week).

After enrollment, you will receive a Letter of Introduction to help support your visa application.

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✔️ Students IN the U.S. Visa Waiver Program

If your country is on the Visa Waiver Program list, you do not need a visa.

However, you must apply for an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) before entering the U.S.

Apply here: https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov/esta

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💼 What the International Program Fee Covers

• 📄 Visa support and pre-arrival communication

• 🚌 Transportation to and from campus

• 🕑 24/7 arrival and departure assistance

• 🏥 International medical/health insurance while abroad

• 📱 Help securing a local phone number or SIM card if needed

🌍 International Fees & Support

💵 International Registration Fee (U.S. Programs)

Students whose primary residence is outside the United States will be charged an International Registration Fee when attending a U.S.-based program.

This fee includes:

• 📄 Visa support and pre-arrival communication

• 🚌 Transportation to and from campus

• 🕑 24/7 arrival and departure assistance

• 🏥 Medical/health insurance for international students

• 📱 Help obtaining a U.S. SIM card or phone plan

Note: This fee is mandatory and non-refundable, even if the student does not use all services.

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📘 Academic Reports & College Credit

📝 Student Performance Reports

After the program ends, students receive:

• Detailed course performance summaries

• Instructor feedback

• Recommendations for continued growth

Reports can be mailed to a student’s school upon written parent request.

🎓 College Credit Programs

Students enrolled in credit-bearing classes receive:

• A grade report

• Instructions for requesting a university transcript

Acceptance of credits depends on the receiving university’s policies.

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🌎 International Student Community

Programs welcome a diverse and global student population each summer:

• 🌐 About 30% of students come from outside the U.S.

• 🌍 Representing 50–60 countries

This creates a vibrant, multicultural learning experience.

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🏠 Housing & Roommate Matching

Students complete a personal profile in the spring to assist with roommate assignments.

Matching is based on:

• Interests

• Personality

• Sleeping habits

• Age group

Roommate Requests:

• Must be mutual

• Must be same age group and gender

• Not guaranteed, though campus staff make every effort

Cultural diversity is encouraged, and many roommates come from different countries.

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🧳 What to Bring

Students should pack essentials for at least one week.

Recommended:

• Clothing for warm and cool weather

• Basic school supplies

• Personal toiletries

• Laundry supplies

Spending Money:

• $100–$150 per week (snacks, lunches, souvenirs)

• Debit card recommended for ATM withdrawals

• Credit card for emergencies

• Avoid carrying large amounts of cash

Note: Some campuses provide bedding. A campus-specific packing list will be available after enrollment.

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✈ Travel & Airport Transportation

Programs do not arrange flights.

🚌 Airport Shuttles

Shuttle transportation (additional fee) is available to/from designated airports.

Details are included in the pre-summer transportation form.

Students must arrive/depart within scheduled shuttle windows to use this service.

• For international students, the international registration fee is $379 (residential) OR $239 (commuter) – this fee covers a medical policy for the student and their airport transfers.

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🕒 A Typical Day on Campus (Residential Programs)

A structured, activity-filled day may look like:

• 8:00 AM – Wake Up 🌅

• 8:30 AM – Breakfast 🍳

• 9:30–11:30 AM – Morning Course / Academy 📘

• 11:45 AM – Lunch 🍽

• 1:00–3:00 PM – Afternoon Course / Academy 🧪

• 3:30 PM – Activities, Social Time, or Study Hall 🎉

• 6:00 PM – Dinner 🍝

• 8:00 PM – Evening / Primetime Activities 🌆

• 10:30 PM – Return to Residence Halls 🏠

• 11:30 PM – On Floors 🌙

• 12:00 AM – In Rooms / Lights Out 😴

Activities may include:

shopping • sports • beaches • museums • movies • comedy shows • concerts • local events

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📚 Academic Experience (Enrichment & College Prep)

Programs emphasize:

• Small, interactive classes

• Supportive, enthusiastic instructors

• Hands-on learning and real-world experiences

• Field trips connected to course themes

• A wide choice of enrichment or academic courses

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🚗 Day Students (Non-Residential)

Day students follow the regular campus schedule to align with meals and activities.

Standard Schedule (Monday–Friday):

• Drop-Off: 8:30 AM

• Pick-Up: 6:00 PM

Times may vary by campus.

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🍽 Special Dietary Needs

Special meals and dietary accommodations are available.

Requirements:

Parents must complete a dietary information form during pre-arrival.

Residential & Standard Programs:

Notify the Residential Life Dean of dietary restrictions.

Day Programs (Younger Students):

Parents should inform the Program Director on-site.

Common accommodations include:

• Allergy-friendly meals

• Vegetarian/vegan options

• Gluten-free meals

• Religious dietary needs

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🛡️ Campus Safety & Supervision

Student safety is the top priority.

Safety Measures:

• Staff and counselors live on student floors

• 24/7 supervision

• Key-card residence hall access

• Daily check-ins and room checks

• Visitors must check in at the program office

• Students may move only in small groups

• Students may never leave campus alone

• Older students (14–18) may have limited group movement privileges

• 24/7 access to medical care

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📱 Emergency Communication & Response

Campus teams monitor:

• Weather

• Local events

• Road closures

• Any conditions that affect student safety

If needed, programs may:

• Move classes

• Adjust or reroute activities

• Avoid specific areas

Students receive:

• Daily notifications

• Safety messages

• Emergency push alerts

A dedicated Campus Emergency Line connects students to on-site directors.

International students receive support obtaining a local SIM card for reliable communication.

All students attend a mandatory orientation within the first 24 hours covering emergency procedures.

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🚫 Movement Policies & Program Rules

To maintain a safe, positive environment:

• Students and staff may not participate in protests

• All off-campus trips are fully chaperoned

• Security may be increased with campus police or external teams if needed

• Staff monitor all on- and off-campus locations and adjust plans immediately if necessary

📍 Cornell University – Campus Profile (Ithaca, NY)

Cornell University offers an inspiring academic setting where students can explore new ideas, develop essential skills, and engage with the world from one of the nation’s most renowned institutions. With a history of excellence dating back to 1865, the campus blends tradition, innovation, and natural beauty, providing an unmatched environment for both academic and personal growth.

Nestled in Ithaca, New York, Cornell is surrounded by scenic gorges, waterfalls, and the stunning landscapes of the Finger Lakes region. The campus atmosphere is energetic, inclusive, and intellectually rich — making it an ideal location for Middle School, High School, and Gifted students to deepen their interests and try new subjects.

Beyond academics, students enjoy hands-on workshops, daily activities, and exciting excursions that connect learning to real-world experiences. With opportunities in medical sciences, global politics, psychology, engineering, and the arts, Cornell fosters curiosity, creativity, and confidence in the next generation of thinkers and leaders.

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✨ Program Environment

• Offers a wide selection of subjects for Middle School and Gifted learners

• Dynamic curriculum designed to stretch students’ thinking and support independent exploration

• Daily workshops in arts, health, recreation, and sports

• Ideal for accelerated learners seeking challenge and enrichment

• Access to world-class academic resources and engaging classroom environments

• Located within walking distance of natural wonders, perfect for exploration and inspiration

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🎒 Included in Tuition

• 📘 Academic tuition

• 🏨 Housing (residential programs)

• 🍽 Three meals per day, 7 days a week

• 🎡 Afternoon, evening, and weekend activities and excursions

• 🚐 Transportation for all included activities

• 🏋️ Use of athletic and recreation facilities

• 🛌 Blanket, sheets, pillow, and pillowcase

• 🛡 On-campus safety and supervision

Note: Some courses and academies may require additional academic fees.

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🚫 Not Included in Tuition

• 📝 Application fee

• ✈ Airfare and airport transfers

• 🍽 Meals eaten off campus

• 🧼 Laundry

• 💼 Personal spending money

• 🏥 Medical expenses

A standard international program fee applies for international students.

Closest airport: Ithaca Tompkins International Airport (ITH).

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🎡 Top Activities in Ithaca, New York

• 🌊 Explore the Finger Lakes region

• 🌌 Sagan Planet Walk

• ⛳ Sciencenter Mini Golf (science-themed!)

• 🛍 Shopping, dining, and exploring Downtown Ithaca

• 🥾 Hiking Ithaca’s iconic gorges and waterfalls

• 🎢 Seabreeze Amusement Park

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🎉 Top Campus Activities

• 🎧 Silent Disco

• 🎭 Variety performances featuring comedians, hypnotists, mentalists, and magicians

• 🤝 Community-building events, traditions, group challenges

• 🏆 Sports tournaments and recreational leagues