What is a typical day like at camp?
A typically day begins between 8:00 to 9:00 am. Educational activities are scheduled until dinner, around 5:00 pm. Additional speakers, career workshops, and team building games may be scheduled after dinner. Time is reserved in the evening for campers to relax before official “lights out” at 11:00 pm.

The majority of camp activities are spent on the Bishop Lane Retreat Center campus. The third day of camp will include a visit to the UIC Health Sciences Campus- Rockford. Transportation will be provided on this day.

When will I find out if I am accepted? Will you tell me if I am not accepted?
Applications are due Monday, May 15, 2023. Applicants will be notified of their acceptance within one month of application. A letter of acceptance will be sent by email for early notification to those who list one on their application. An acceptance packet will be mailed the week of May 15, 2023. Please allow some time for the packet to arrive.

Based upon the number of applicants, there may be a waiting list and students will be notified if they have been placed on the list. Final confirmation will be sent by June 15, 2023 for those on the waiting list.

How many students will be participating?
Up to 50 students will be selected to participate.

Where will I be staying during camp? Will I have a roommate?
Participants stay at the Bishop Lane Retreat Center, 7708 East McGregor Road
Rockford, IL 61102. Dormitories are separated by gender and rooms are available with two beds per room with its own bathroom. A Roommate Compatibility Form is sent in acceptance packets to match students by interests. There is also a section on the form to request a particular roommate.

Camp counselors are also required to stay in private rooms in the dormitories for supervision and to attend to campers as needed.

When do I need to arrive to and leave camp? Can I drive myself?
Camper check-in begins at 9am on Monday, June 26, 2023 at the main building at the Bishop Lane Retreat Center. Camper check-out will begin at 7:00 pm on Wednesday, June 28, 2023. Campers MUST be dropped off and picked up by a parent, guardian, or the parent/ guardian of another camper.

What should I bring?
A list of suggested items will be sent in camp acceptance packets. Bed linens are provided by the Bishop Lane Retreat Center.

What should I wear?
Camp dress code is the same as school dress code. Please pack according to expected high and low temperatures for the week, as weather in June can vary significantly. Closed-toe shoes are required for lab activities. A full list of suggestions will be sent in camp acceptance packets.

I can be shy in big groups. Will I still enjoy the experience?
Of course! Campers will be assigned a small group with a designated camp counselor for activities throughout camp. Campers will have the chance to work with students of other groups, but these smaller groups will be a great way to get to know a few fellow campers more closely. The majority of former campers say that the camp is a great opportunity to make new friends!

Can you accommodate an allergy and dietary restrictions?
Yes! The majority of camp meals will be held in the Bishop Lane Retreat Center cafeteria. Their staff can accommodate to each student’s dietary needs. The acceptance packet includes an Emergency Medical Waiver Form in which you can let us know your needs.

I submitted my acceptance packet and $100 camp fee but plans have changed and I am no longer able to attend. Can I get a refund?
Refunds may be provided through Tuesday, June 20, 2023. After this date, refunds will not be available.