Frequently Asked Questions

When is the 2010 Summer Session?

This year’s summer program begins at noon on Tuesday, July 13 and wraps up on Saturday evening, July 17.

What is the total cost of the Summer Session?

The tuition - $1250 - includes all materials and most meals. We do have some financial aid for qualifying students, so don't let the tuition prevent you from applying. We also encourage students to raise money for their travel expenses from political people they’ve helped out along the way. Nothing should stop you from applying if you’re serious about a career in public service. Make use of your “Old Girl Network” and learn your first lesson in politics: how to raise money!

We ask that applicants who don't require assistance will leave that option for others with clear need.

Transportation and hotel fees are the responsibility of the attendee. We have a special arrangement with a local hotel to block off a number of rooms, subject to a July 1 cut-off. When making reservations, be sure to mention that you’re with the Women’s Campaign School at Yale program. You can either walk or take a taxi to campus from your hotel.

Who is accepted?

We look for students who demonstrate a serious commitment to running for office, pursuing political jobs, organizing their communities, or managing campaigns for other women.

Past participants have included campaign and community volunteers, activists and advocates, business women who want enter public service, local elected officials who want to enhance their political skills and women from international organizations who will go home and train other women. Campaign or public policy experience is not required if you have strong political references.

We want our students to achieve success so there are occasions when we advise applicants to obtain a little more campaign experience or to attend a local campaign training effort through their local political committee before they attend our program.

Our schedule is grueling: you’ll be immersed in political training for at least 12 hours a day during the five-day session. Campaigns are tough – and so is our training.

Does WCS accept men?

Yes. WCS Yale is focused on women, but in the past has accepted men who have demonstrated a commitment to women candidates. WCS Yale is open to men and concentrates on furthering the role of women in the campaign process. All applications are reviewed on a case-by-case basis.

How many students are accepted to the Summer Session each year?

We usually accept approximately 60-75 students, but a dramatic increase in qualified applicants may expand or multi-track the class. We want the program to remain small enough for people to get to know one another while they’re with us.

What should I pack?

We’re preparing you to run for office – so dress the part. We spend most of the weekdays in business attire, more business than casual for dinners. Leave tank tops and tube tops at home – they’re prohibited at the Graduate Club where we have our nightly meals.
New Haven in July tends to be warm and humid, and occasionally rainy. Many people find the lecture hall cool, but we’re unable to alter Yale's programmed thermostat. It’s best to dress in layers -- bring a sweater or jacket in case you need them.

Wear comfortable shoes that will allow you to navigate everything from cobblestones to the Law School’s highly polished floors.

How is WCS at Yale different from other campaign training programs?

The Pace

Our program is designed to create the scheduling pressure of the last couple of weeks of a campaign, but with better food! Twelve-to-16 hour days in lectures and after class activities are the norm.

Arrive Tuesday prepared to begin at noon. You'll be here for five days and there’s no time for sightseeing. It's all politics - all the time - even at most meals. If you want to check out the area or go into New York City for shopping, plan to arrive a day or so early. You’ll be too tired after!

The Program

We teach our students in an issue-neutral non-partisan environment. We want our graduates to be the best leaders they can be regardless of stands on the issues or party affiliation.

Why should I attend WCS at Yale?

Are you thinking about making your first run for public office? Are you thinking about a step up to the next level?

Work harder, listen longer, learn more than you ever thought you could in one week.

Recording of the sessions is NOT permitted. Our presenters own their intellectual property and it may not be recorded or disseminated in any form without written permission of the presenter.