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Frequently Asked Questions
What is SENIOR SUMMER SCHOOL? SENIOR SUMMER SCHOOL is a private organization that works with universities, hotels and private residence halls to design Fabulous Summer Getaway Programs which give active and adventurous retirees an affordable opportunity to experience great institutions of higher learning in a beautifully cool summertime climate, while also getting the vacation benefits of these lovely locations. You provide your own transportation and we’ll take care of the rest! Your price includes, accommodations, meals, daily classes/lectures, a couple of sight-seeing trips and either a nightly lecture or entertainment.
Are there programs for singles? There are many singles who participate in Senior Summer School programs. We have a fairly equal mix of couples and singles, so all feel welcome.
What classes will be offered? Who teaches the classes? Do I have to attend the classes? Each SENIOR SUMMER SCHOOL program will offer a variety of interesting classes. Popular subjects include: current events, political science, art history, literature, music and theater, and history of the local area. Classes and lectures which showcase the area are presented to acquaint you with your destination choice. We do not focus on a particular subject; rather we touch on several subjects and issues that are pertinent, current and of particular interest to our participants. SENIOR SUMMER SCHOOL classes are taught by university instructors, professors, local celebrities and professionals in their field. Class attendance is not required; however, it is encouraged. You can feel free to play hooky for an afternoon if you like. That too is encouraged! Classes for next season will be posted on the website as they are confirmed.
How do the meals work? Your first meal at each location is dinner on the day the program starts and your last meal is breakfast on the day the program ends. Please see each location sheet for meal plan specifics.
How do I register for a program? You will find an online registration form here , in your mailing packet, or at an informational meeting . Fill out this form and return it to SENIOR SUMMER SCHOOL with a $300 deposit. Your deposit will be deducted from your final amount due. If you choose one of the special sessions for under $1,200 then full payment is due at time of registration.
What other costs are there? There is a mandatory gratuity charge of approximately 3%. The charge is $30 for programs based in student-housing/apartments and $40 for programs based in hotels. We offer an optional travel protection plan (typically 10%-15% of total program cost) and information on that will be available in early spring. Typically each program offers 3 sightseeing trips included in the price, with others offered at a nominal charge. Madison and Boone offer a shuttle service for a fee as well.
What if I have to cancel? Payment for a Madison, WI, or San Diego, CA, special session is refundable until April 1, 2010, except for a $100 administrative fee. For all other sessions, a $100 adminstrative fee applies to cancellations made prior to May 1, 2010, or prior to final payment in full. Once final payment is received in full, cancellations are accepted only if a participant has purchased a Travel Protection Plan; this is applicable for medical reasons only. If both you and your travel partner (room-mate or suite-mate) are insured, then you can also cancel if your travel partner has health issues. SENIOR SUMMER SCHOOL offers a travel protection plan or you can purchase it from the provider of your choice.
What is the deadline for registration? There is no deadline for registration, as long as space is available. However, we are asking all potential participants to register by March 1, 2010, to ensure program viability for all sessions. Early registration is recommended because some programs sell out early and others will be cancelled if participation rate does not meet host-location requirements.
When should I make my travel arrangements? We recommend you make travel arrangements upon receipt of program confirmation from SENIOR SUMMER SCHOOL. Confirmations will be mailed as soon as progam capacity is reached, but no later than March 31, 2010.
What if I have health limitations? You will experience a variety of activities and terrains during your stay. We expect participants to be in favorable physical condition. Participants must be able to handle their luggage, climb a flight of stairs, stand for up to an hour, get on and off a motor coach and walk a few blocks indoors and out. If you have special physical or dietary requirement, please contact us prior to making your registration so we can verify we will be able to meet your special needs.
What if I have other questions? Call us toll-free at 1-800-847-2466, our Madison office at 608-255-0263, or our Arizona office, 480-545-1238.
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