Chinese Language Camp ｜中文夏令营
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2026 Application Opens Soon!
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2026 Interest Form Found Here
The University of the South, familiarly known as Sewanee, is excited to host the 2026 Sewanee Chinese Language Camp, an immersive language camp with a focus on environmental sustainability and outdoor recreation for 9th-11th grade high-school students.
During camp, students will put their language skills to use while exploring Sewanee’s 13,000 acres of pristine forest atop the Cumberland Plateau with activities such as hiking, biking, climbing, swimming, and even caving. This natural environment is also one of the most biodiverse ecosystems in the United States and will serve as a living laboratory as we perform science experiments such as salamander counting, bird watching, and water sampling while attempting to remain immersed in the target language.
After the in-person camp, students will continue to immerse themselves in the language and culture by developing a culminating presentation comparing and contrasting environmental concerns both locally and globally. Students will come away with significantly improved Chinese language skills, a heightened appreciation of environmental issues, and a greater understanding of Chinese culture.
Most mornings students will engage in a semi-immersive language learning in the classroom. In the afternoon, students will continue to learn through project-based activities (e.g. hiking, organic gardening, biking, caving, etc.) while maintaining as much of an immersive environment as possible. The theme of “Environmental Stewardship” will provide ample opportunities for communication about food, geography, and culture; learning about the cultures and environments of China; connecting to art and history. By the end of the program, students will be able to handle many authentic tasks, including telling and asking about basic personal information, as well as commenting on the geography and environment of China and the USA.
Costs for 2026 will be announced soon. This will cover all tuition, lodging, and meals associated with the program once students arrive on campus.
WHEN
The exact dates of the in-person Chinese Language Camp are from June 14 to June 28, 2026. Students will live in a residence hall on campus for the entire time, with the possibility of an overnight camping trip.
Campers should plan on arriving to campus between noon and 3 p.m. on Sunday, June 14, and then depart campus by noon on Sunday, June 28. For more information on traveling to campus, please visit here.
Application Requirements
- Students must be between 14 and 17 years old during the in-person portion of the camp.
- Students are not required to have prior Chinese language experience.
- Students should be prepared to participate in moderate outdoor activity, including potential hiking, biking, swimming, farming, and caving.
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