Public Speaking & Debate for High Schoolers at UCLA

Course Description: Public Speaking & Debate for High Schoolers at UCLA

Mastering the Art of Persuasion: Public Speaking and Debate Course

Unlock the power of eloquence and persuasion with our transformative Public Speaking and Debate course. Whether addressing a packed auditorium or engaging in a lively discussion with peers, this program empowers you to communicate with confidence and influence. Through a blend of theory and practice, you will master the art of constructing compelling arguments, refining your vocal delivery, and employing body language that exudes confidence and credibility. This course is your gateway to becoming a poised and persuasive communicator, ready to make a lasting impact.

Why It is a Great Choice

• Cultivate the ability to communicate articulately, enhancing your influence in any setting.

• Explore vocal techniques and body language strategies to boost your speaking credibility.

• Engage in dynamic exercises and structured debates to hone your critical thinking skills.

• Develop research-based presentations that captivate and engage diverse audiences.

• Earn a Course Completion Certificate and a Letter of Recognition to bolster your academic portfolio.

Location

This course is part of the prestigious program at UCLA, offering a university-level experience in a vibrant and inspiring campus setting. Immerse yourself in a community of like-minded peers, all eager to enhance their public speaking and debate skills.

Course Description

Public Speaking and Debate

This course is designed to transform you into a confident and persuasive speaker. Through interactive sessions, you'll learn to:

• Apply vocal techniques and body language strategies to enhance your speaking credibility and command attention.

• Demonstrate effective impromptu speaking skills in various group settings, ensuring you can articulate your thoughts spontaneously and persuasively.

• Implement persuasive argument structures using critical thinking skills, allowing you to construct and deliver compelling arguments.

• Develop research-based presentations that engage and inform diverse audiences, showcasing your ability to communicate complex ideas clearly.

• Practice confident delivery techniques that create a lasting impact, leaving your audience inspired and informed.

Admission Criteria

This course welcomes aspiring students with a passion for public speaking and debate. Success begins with a completed Summer Institute application, reflecting your interest and commitment to mastering the art of persuasion.

Who Should Attend

If you are an aspiring student eager to explore the realms of public speaking and debate, this course is your stepping stone to a successful academic and professional journey. It will introduce you to the fundamentals and help you decide if a career in this dynamic field is your calling.

Benefits

Beyond the enriching experience, students will receive:

• A Course Completion Certificate from Summer Institute UCLA, recognizing your dedication and achievement.

• A Letter of Recognition from Summer Institute, highlighting your academic accomplishments and the skills acquired during this transformative course.

Join us this summer and elevate your communication skills to new heights, paving the way for a future filled with opportunities and success.

🛂 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

📍 University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) – Campus Profile (Los Angeles, CA)

The University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) offers one of the most exciting and iconic pre-college environments in the United States. Known for its academic excellence, vibrant campus life, and prime Southern California location, UCLA attracts motivated students from around the globe who want both enrichment and adventure.

Set in the heart of Los Angeles, UCLA blends rigorous academics with an active, socially engaging student experience. The campus is surrounded by world-class beaches, entertainment districts, art, culture, and the unmistakable energy of Southern California. Students enjoy engaging courses taught by UCLA-selected instructors, along with exceptional access to campus facilities, residence halls, recreation spaces, and cultural experiences.

UCLA is especially popular with students who want a laid-back yet exciting experience — those who enjoy meeting new people, exploring a major city, and participating in fun, hands-on afternoon and weekend activities. From beaches to theme parks to Hollywood landmarks, UCLA offers a dynamic summer enriched with unforgettable experiences.

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✨ Program Environment

• Perfect for students seeking a balance between academics, social activities, and exploration

• Courses developed by UCLA academic departments and taught by UCLA-selected instructors

• Hands-on, immersive coursework with strong engagement and interactive learning

• Comfortable residence halls with age-appropriate floors for high school and middle school students

• Access to outstanding campus recreation facilities, sports courts, pools, and social spaces

• Located near iconic LA neighborhoods, attractions, and outdoor destinations

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🎒 Included in Tuition

• 📘 Academic tuition

• 🏨 Housing (residential programs)

• 🍽 Two meals per day (lunch and dinner)

• 🎡 Afternoon, evening, and weekend excursions and activities

• 🚐 Transportation for included activities

• 🏋️ Access to campus athletic and recreation facilities

• 🛌 Blanket, sheets, pillow

• 🛡 Full campus safety and supervision

Note: Some academies or specialized courses may require additional 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: Los Angeles International Airport (LAX).

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🎡 Top Activities in Los Angeles, California

• 🎢 Six Flags, Disneyland, Universal Studios Hollywood

• 🏖 Santa Monica Beach & Pier, Manhattan Beach, Malibu

• 🛍 Rodeo Drive, Abbot Kinney, Third Street Promenade, Century City

• ⚾ Dodgers, Angels, and LA Galaxy games

• 🌌 Griffith Observatory & hike to the Hollywood Sign

• 🌅 Sunset Cruise along the Pacific Coast

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🎉 Top Campus Activities

• 🎧 Silent Disco and Live Band Karaoke

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

• 🎨 Clubs: arts, baking, game nights, sports leagues, and more

• 🍔 End-of-summer BBQ with lawn games and music