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Watch a Video Tour of American University Debate Camp

Step into a summer of transformation at American University, where students develop confidence, critical thinking, and leadership skills in a dynamic campus environment.

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Campus Life!

Letts Hall Living

  • Modern residential experience

Your Home at AU:

  • Air-conditioned double rooms
  • Community lounges & study spaces
  • 24/7 security & support
  • Modern amenities
Dining!

Mary Graydon Dining

  • All-inclusive dining experience

Dining Experience:

  • All-you-can-eat buffet
  • Diverse menu options
  • Dietary accommodations
  • Social dining atmosphere
Activities!

The Quad Experience

  • Recreation & relaxation

Campus Life:

  • Outdoor basketball courts
  • Green spaces for activities
  • Student gathering areas
  • Campus recreation center
Program Details & Campus Life

American University Summer 2025: What to Expect

From move-in to final presentations - explore our comprehensive guide to campus life, daily schedules, and program highlights

Essential Details Updated for 2025

Your Complete Program Guide

Everything parents need to know about move-in, schedules, housing, and campus logistics

Capitol Debate at American University
Campus Life Virtual Tour Available

Life at American University

Experience our premier DC campus with state-of-the-art facilities and vibrant student life

American University Campus Experience

Experience Capitol Debate Camp at American University in Washington, Washington DC

Watch our students grow, learn, and succeed year after year

Program Highlights from 2024
Success Framework

Extensive Checklist for Success

At Capitol Debate, we ensure that every aspect of public speaking and debate is thoroughly addressed. Our comprehensive checklist is meticulously designed to track and guide each student's progress.

Teacher explaining debate techniques
Voice!

Vocal Quality Mastery

  • Perfect your vocal delivery

Key Voice Elements:

  • Voice projection & clarity
  • Effective vocal variety
  • Strategic use of pauses
  • Emphasis techniques
Non-Verbal!

Body Language Excellence

  • Master non-verbal communication

Non-Verbal Skills:

  • Purposeful gestures
  • Commanding stage presence
  • Strategic eye contact
  • Expressive facial control
Structure!

Speech Architecture

  • Build compelling speeches

Speech Structure:

  • Powerful openings
  • Clear main points
  • Logical transitions
  • Memorable conclusions
Cross-Ex!

Strategic Cross-Examination

  • Master the art of questioning

Cross-Ex Skills:

  • Strategic questioning
  • Answer preparation
  • Time management
  • Composure control
Refute!

Refutation Techniques

  • Counter arguments effectively

Refutation Skills:

  • Clear signposting
  • Strategic ordering
  • Impact assessment
  • Argument comparison
Closing!

Persuasive Closings

  • End debates powerfully

Closing Techniques:

  • Powerful summation
  • Victory articulation
  • Emotional connection
  • Call to action

American University Reviews Are In! 🔥

See what Parents and Students are Saying

MR

Maggie A. Rhee-Karn

CAPITOL DEBATE Parent
Verified Review
Excellence in Action ⭐
This camp teaches our kids the valuable skills of debate fostering critical thinking and self-confidence and within a supportive and fun group of peers.
#CapitolDebate #SummerSuccess
MD

Monique DeMonaco

CAPITOL DEBATE Parent
Verified Review
Exceptional Program ⭐
Capitol Debate makes learning engaging and fun, which is the best of both worlds!
#CapitolDebate #SummerSuccess
HG

Hannah Gong

CAPITOL DEBATE Student
Verified Review
Nurturing Excellence ⭐
I loved my first year at Capitol Debate, I learned so much, made so many friends, and it sparked a new passion in me for debate
#CapitolDebate #SummerSuccess