Frequently Asked Questions
Is on-campus housing available? How are roommate assignments made?
Residential participants will stay overnight in residence halls on campus in double or single rooms. Roommate assignments are made by program staff. Mutual requests for preferred roommates (as made on the registration form) will be honored. Occasionally, a participant may have a single room based on the enrollment numbers. Special requests for a single room must be submitted at least four weeks in advance for consideration via email to Peggy Plunkett at pup89@psu.edu.
Based on the gender submitted on the registration form, males and females will be housed in separate buildings. If that gender does not match your child’s gender identity, please do not hesitate to contact the program manager, Peggy Plunkett, at pup89@psu.edu at least 4 weeks in advance of the program. We will work together to make sure your child feels safe and welcomed.
Is on-campus parking available for my child?
Only those who purchase a parking permit during the registration process will be allowed to park on campus.
Where will participants eat?
Participants eat together in campus dining halls. Three meals per day are provided to residential participants. Commuter participants will be given lunch and dinner. The dining halls serve a variety of meals that include vegetarian and gluten free options.
Food allergies must be disclosed to the program manager, Peggy Plunkett, pup89@psu.edu. Learn more at Meals and Allergies or Penn State Campus Dining or by calling 814-867-5277 or emailing foodallergies@psu.edu.
Will participants be supervised?
Counselors supervise the participants 24/7. All our staff have all required clearances and background checks. Participants are supervised at all times, and they are not allowed to go anywhere unless their counselors and/or instructors are with them.
Does my child need extra money?
The only items your child might want to purchase with their own money would be extra snacks (in addition to what is provided daily) and/or souvenirs.
What are check-in and departure times?
Details about arrival and departure, including locations and parking options, will be sent in the “Know Before You Go” email to parents/legal guardians and participants prior to the beginning of the program. You may also check the Schedule page for additional details.
What do I do if my child requires an accommodation?
Penn State encourages persons with disabilities to participate in its programs and activities. If you anticipate needing special accommodations or have questions about the physical access provided, please contact the program manager, Peggy Plunkett at pup89@psu.edu, at least four weeks prior to your arrival.
If your child will require any other type of accommodation, please do not hesitate to reach out. The needs of any participant in a youth program will be discussed privately with that child’s parent/legal guardian on a case by case basis with the goal of promoting a safe environment and quality experience. If you have any questions, please contact the program manager Peggy Plunkett at pup89@psu.edu.
Who else is attending this program?
For legal reasons, the University cannot release the names or phone numbers of other participants, not even to those who want to carpool.
Is my child allowed to receive mail in the residence halls?
No. Please do not mail items to your child.
Is my child able to do laundry in the residence halls?
Yes. Each residence hall offers a laundry room with high-efficiency washers and dryers. Resident participants will need to visit the Commons Desk to load money onto their access card (received at check-in).
How can I learn more about Penn State Youth Compliance?
Please review the Youth Programs Ethics and Compliance web page.