Speak with Confidence: Rhetoric & Debate for Gifted Middle Schoolers at Yale University

Course Description: Speak with Confidence: Rhetoric & Debate for Gifted Middle Schoolers at Yale University

Mastering the art of communication: Gifted Summer Course at UCLA

Unlock the power of words and gestures with our exclusive summer course designed for gifted students at UCLA. Whether you're addressing a packed auditorium or engaging in an intimate discussion, the ability to communicate effectively is your gateway to influence and leadership. This course is your opportunity to refine your communication skills, making you a confident and persuasive speaker ready to leave a lasting impression.

Why It is a Great Choice

• Enhance verbal communication and sentence structure for clarity and impact.

• Master vocal techniques that build trust and amplify your influence.

• Harness the power of body language to convey confidence and credibility.

• Develop a commanding voice that inspires and motivates others.

• Analyze and apply rhetorical strategies used by history’s greatest orators.

Location

Nestled in the vibrant campus of UCLA, this program offers an inspiring environment for young learners. With state-of-the-art facilities and a dynamic academic atmosphere, students will immerse themselves in a community that fosters growth, creativity, and excellence.

Course Description

Gifted Program

This course is tailored for aspiring professionals eager to enhance their communication prowess. Participants will delve into the nuances of public speaking, exploring techniques that elevate their ability to convey ideas with poise and conviction.

• Verbal Mastery: Improve sentence structure and word usage to articulate ideas clearly and persuasively.

• Vocal Techniques: Learn unique vocal tonalities that earn trust and captivate audiences.

• Body Language: Investigate methods to project confidence and control through non-verbal cues.

• Rhetorical Strategies: Explore the art of rhetoric and techniques used by renowned speakers throughout history.

Learning Outcomes

Upon completing this course, students will possess the skills to:

• Communicate verbally with enhanced clarity and effectiveness.

• Utilize vocal techniques that establish trust and authority.

• Leverage body language to support their verbal messages.

• Command attention and inspire action through impactful speaking.

• Critically analyze and implement rhetorical techniques.

Admission Criteria

To participate in this exclusive program, view the eligibility requirements for the gifted program on our FAQ page. Completion of the program application is also required.

Who Should Attend

This course is ideal for aspiring professionals seeking to excel in their academic and career endeavors. It introduces the fundamentals of effective public speaking, equipping students with skills applicable across various professional tracks.

Benefits

Enrolling in this course not only provides a university-level learning experience but also offers tangible recognition of your achievements:

• Course Completion Certificate: Validate your successful participation in the Middle School summer program at UCLA.

• Letter of Recognition: Receive acknowledgment from the program for your academic accomplishment in completing this course.

Prepare to embark on a transformative journey that will elevate your communication skills to new heights, setting the stage for future 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.

✔️ 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

💼 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.

📘 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.

🌎 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.

🏠 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.

🧳 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.

✈ 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.

🕒 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

📚 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

🌟 Gifted Program Structure

Gifted programs offer an advanced academic model featuring:

• Collaborative investigations

• Independent research

• Experiments and project-based learning

• Creative and critical thinking challenges

• Performance tasks and presentations

Instructors adjust pacing and structure based on age and academic level.

🌟 Gifted Program Eligibility & Requirements

Students applying to Gifted Programs must demonstrate eligibility by providing one of the following (submitted during the application process):

📄 1. Standardized Test Scores

Nationally normed test results at the 95th percentile or above in intellectual ability, academic achievement, or creativity (within the last 5 school years).

🎓 2. Participation in a Gifted Program

Documentation showing one of the following within the last 5 years:

• Acceptance into a gifted education program or gifted school

• Participation in a recognized talent search

• Enrollment in a comparable advanced summer enrichment or gifted program

📝 3. Educator Recommendation

A recommendation from one core subject teacher (English Language Arts, Mathematics, Science, or Social Studies) confirming the student’s advanced learning readiness.

💻 Technology Requirements for Gifted Courses

Gifted courses require students to engage actively through digital platforms, including access to online course materials, assignments, and instructor feedback.

Required Device

All students enrolled in Gifted Programs must bring a laptop or tablet with internet access.

Why a Device Is Required

• Courses use Canvas, an online learning system

• Students view lessons, submit assignments, and access resources through Canvas

• Instructors provide personalized feedback through the platform

• Digital tools support research, creativity, and collaboration

Having a personal device ensures students can fully participate in all aspects of the Gifted curriculum.

🚗 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.

🍽 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

🛡️ 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

📱 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.

🚫 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# 🌟 Gifted Program Eligibility & Requirements

Students applying to Gifted Programs must demonstrate eligibility by submitting one of the following during the application process:

📍 Yale University – Campus Profile (New Haven, CT)

Yale University, founded in 1701, is one of the world’s most prestigious academic institutions. Known for its iconic Gothic architecture, rich intellectual traditions, and distinguished alumni, Yale provides an inspiring environment for motivated middle and high school students. The campus atmosphere is both historic and forward-thinking, offering an ideal setting for advanced learners seeking challenge, creativity, and personal growth.

Students immerse themselves in rigorous academic exploration while engaging with peers who share their curiosity and drive. The campus provides access to remarkable resources, museums, performance spaces, and beautiful courtyards that make learning dynamic and unforgettable.

Beyond academics, students participate in a balanced schedule of enrichment activities, recreation, and community-building events — giving them the opportunity to grow socially, develop independence, and enjoy a meaningful and supportive summer experience.

✨ Program Environment

• Designed for high-achieving Middle School and High School students

• Focused on in-depth learning, analytical thinking, and intellectual exploration

• Strong academic community that encourages self-advocacy, leadership, and teamwork

• Balanced enrichment schedule with engaging activities, workshops, and excursions

• Supportive environment that nurtures individuality, creativity, and healthy peer relationships

• A warm, inclusive campus atmosphere that promotes confidence and lifelong learning

🎒 Included in Tuition

• 📘 Academic tuition

• 🏨 Housing (residential programs)

• 🍽 2–3 meals per day, 7 days a week (varies by program)

• 🎡 Daily and weekend excursions, activities, and community events

• 🚐 Transportation for all included activities

• 🏋️ Access to athletic and recreation facilities

• 🛌 Pillow

• 🛡 Full campus safety and supervision

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

🚫 Not Included in Tuition

• 📝 Application fee

• ✈ Airfare and airport transfers

• 🍽 Meals eaten off campus

• 🧼 Laundry

• 🛏 Linens

• 💼 Personal spending money

• 🏥 Medical expenses

A standard international program fee applies for international students. Suggested airports: JFK (international) and BDL (domestic).

🎡 Top Activities in New Haven, Connecticut

• 🎮 Dave & Buster’s

• 🎢 Six Flags

• 🏖 Hammonasset State Beach

• 🖼 Yale University Art Gallery

🎉 Top Campus Activities

• 🎧 Silent Disco

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

• 🤝 Community events such as traditions, group challenges, and recreational leagues