The experience varied greatly from last year when my daughter attended as a beginner. The coach was excellent, making it a pleasant experience, so she decided to return this year. However, it turned out to be very disappointing. The program director was assigned as the coach for her class, which meant she had to juggle her responsibilities as a director and coach during the sessions. As a result, students didn't receive timely help and were frequently scolded due to the program director's constant high-stress state. The students' performance in the final showcase was unimpressive, with the chosen topic being only superficially covered. It was hard to believe they had put in two weeks of effort and came up with such shallow points. The topic for this year was "Should AI be more extensively used or not?" One of the commonly used arguments against AI was its high energy consumption, which was deemed environmentally unfriendly. However, this argument seemed weak, as it would imply that human beings should not exist either since we all consume energy in some way. I would have been more convinced if the argument focused on the outcome not justifying the energy consumption. I started to wonder about the coach's efforts in preparing the case with the students, as it was nowhere near the level of depth and discussion from last year's showcase, despite it being a beginner level topic. Furthermore, the Bentley-Harvard branch was highly disappointing. The only connection to Harvard was renting a faculty club for classes, which lasted for only five out of the two weeks of the camp. My daughter didn't see the necessity of this arrangement other than using the Harvard name in the program. Additionally, the students had to endure bus rides of over 30 minutes each way, solely for the purpose of using the Harvard classroom, not to mention the inconvenience of grouping students together before the journey. The wireless connectivity in the rented classroom was abysmal, forcing us to upgrade my daughter's cell phone data plan so she could have internet access during the Harvard classes. It's worth noting that this location charged more than other locations for the camp. Overall, the experience was incredibly disappointing. We have decided not to return and cannot recommend it to anyone. read more

My daughter had an amazing experience at Capitol Debate - Babson College this summer. Both my daughter and I couldn't be more pleased with the camp. This was our second year attending, and the camp continues to exceed our expectations. My daughter made many great friends and gained invaluable knowledge from professional teachers and supportive counselors. The team at Capitol Debate truly puts their heart into what they do to help students grow, and it shows in every aspect of the camp. From the detailed student skill reviews and assessments to the thoughtfully designed activities, delicious food, and rigorous schedule, everything was top-notch. The final debate showcase and ceremony were especially impressive. My daughter, who usually holds high standards for any program she attends, remarked that this was the first time she felt a program was really good. When she says something is "good," it means it's exceptional! As a parent, I can see how much my daughter has learned in the two weeks. We were so impressed and immediately signed up for the next summer camp in 2025. May consider adding a second session in a different month when the summer comes to experience their boarding program. Some of my daughter's friends attended the camp at Yale University location this year, they all loved it and decided to return next year as well. My daughter is so inspired by the teachers and counselors that she's already thinking about becoming a camp counselor at Capitol Debate when she's older, LOL. The camp is a great choice for anyone who wants their kids to learn public speaking and debate professionally. Thank you, Capitol Debate, for such a wonderful and impactful experience! We will come back every year! read more

Last year I met a man who had 3 boys ranging close to the same age as my son. He introduced me to the "topic" of debate club. I've never heard of it before. I was intrigued with the thought and went to the internet to search for one near me. There weren't any for my son's age; however, I found Capitol Debate. I read their reviews and knew immediately that this was the place for my son. It was a sacrifice that I knew I had to make. My 11 y/o had never been away from me overnight with complete strangers. After the first 2 days, he told me that he wants to go to "Vanderbilt when he grows up b/c the teachers are patient and nice. The students there are nice too. We all got along. I liked everyone and we had fun." I told him it wasn't Vanderbilt's program, it was Capitol Debate. This summer I got the opportunity to watch my 11-year-old son, Justin debate at Capitol Debates' camp located in Nashville at Vanderbilt. I was in complete awe with his performance. My son cross-examined and spoke with such confidence that I've never seen before. He was very proud of himself. That was the day I concluded that debating is an essential life skill that my son will perfect, and he will perfect that skill through Capitol Debate. The courses offered are a financial sacrifice that is a necessity in Justin's life. Thank you Capitol Debate for your incredible programs. read more

I could not be happier with Capitol Debate. During fifth and sixth grade, my son had a terrible fear of public speaking and had a very hard time getting up in front of the class to speak. I started looking into different classes and camps that might help him with his speaking skills and I came across Capitol Debate. We decided to give it a try and the first year at camp was great. My son improved his speaking skills and his fear vanished after that first summer. :) He has been back every summer for the last four years and is now a high schooler, and a really polished speaker. What is great about Capitol Debate is that it does not matter where a kid is at with public speaking or debate. This program helps everyone. Some of the kids have years of debate experience but a lot of them are brand new to debate or just really need confidence and public speaking skills...and they all benefit. There is a very strong Critical Thinking piece, which I love because Critical Thinking is not stressed enough in schools. Kids are taught to take apart and analyze information, not to just memorize and regurgitate someone else's opinions. The camp also has a lot of fun activities, and the instructors, staff, and administrators are top-notch. I cannot speak highly enough of Capitol Debate! read more

As a first year student, I am extremely thankful for all the benefits this camp gave me. Before I came to camp, I had stage fright which made me not be able to speak clearly and have sudden blanks where I completely forget what I would be talking about. I have improved so much in debating due to this Capitol Debate Camp. After a few days I made a complete 180 in my attitude, I was able to speak fluently, I learned how to write cases and think on my feet which help me to be a better debater and speaker.I became better at defense speeches and I was able to speak more clearly when talking. I no longer use empty phrases ( like or ummmm). My body language has changed, I have stop putting my hands in my pocket which translate as a sign of lying or dis-trustfulness. We did fun things such as learning new games everyday. I loved how friendly the staff was and my instructor Mrs.Greene was a joyful lady. She was extremely kind and even asked her daughter to bring desserts for us. Throughout camp I developed friendships, a bond that I hope will last a lifetime. I've learned many things from this camp and I am thankful for all the benefits it provided me. Thank you for letting me have the experience I could only have in a lifetime. I hope to come back next summer. read more

My youngest daughter is 12 years of age. She's a very shy young girl, and many times prefer to take the "Follower" role instead of the "Leader" role. Being part of Capitol Debate Camp this Summer 2018 made such a positive impact on her. She experienced one of the most wonderful, independent and most positive life changing experiences she has ever encountered. We were a bit nervous and excited at the same time. This was the first time she would of been away from home for more than a weekend sleep over. Capitol Debate Staff were very attentive to our questions, concerns and fears. They made this experience the most pleasant, fun and professional for both my daughter and I. Staff was always available on phone and e-mail at all times. I never had to worry if I ever needed to reach my daughter on campus. The whole experience from having roommates, doing laundry, the field trip day and debating workshops made her a better problem solver, independent individual gave her higher self stem and assertiveness. Thank you Capitol Debate for making my shy little girl blossom to a powerful assertive young lady. She will definitely be back next year and years to come. My Family and Friends will be part of the Capitol Debate Family for decades to come. read more

My youngest daughter is 12 years of age. She's a very shy young girl, and many times prefer to take the "Follower" role instead of the "Leader" role. Being part of Capitol Debate Camp this Summer 2018 made such a positive impact on her. She experienced one of the most wonderful, independent and most positive life changing experiences she has ever encountered. We were a bit nervous and excited at the same time. This was the first time she would of been away from home for more than a weekend sleep over. Capitol Debate Staff were very attentive to our questions, concerns and fears. They made this experience the most pleasant, fun and professional for both my daughter and I. Staff was always available on phone and e-mail at all times. I never had to worry if I ever needed to reach my daughter on campus. The whole experience from having roommates, doing laundry, the field trip day and debating workshops made her a better problem solver, independent individual gave her higher self stem and assertiveness. Thank you Capitol Debate for making my shy little girl blossom to a powerful assertive young lady. She will definitely be back next year and years to come. My Family and Friends will be part of the Capitol Debate Family for decades to come. read more

Being part of the camp this past week has given me the opportunity and resources to improve my skills as a competitive debater. Having spent numerous hours in the classroom to learn the necessary skills to prevail in our society. For in today's society one has to have speaking skills if they want to affect real change. Capitol debate has given me these skills. One counseler, Blake meyer, gave up numerous hours, day and night, to help me not only with my case, but with my speeches. Giving me constructive criticism when needed and praise when earned. His help allowed me to develop the skills I needed to win best speaker at the tournament at the end of camp. I can say whole heartedly that Blake, and all the other counselers and staff members, truly care about us and only want for us to do our best. In addition, being here has allowed me to foster friendships with those with similar interests. Some of the greatest friends of my life. The skills I learned here and the memories I made are truly priceless. I would recommend capitol debate to all those looking to enrich their lives with the fun and interesting world that surrounds debate. It was truly one of the greatest experiences of my life. read more

My son went to Capitol Debate Summer Camp for 4 years. Now he is a 11th grader and he just finished a Counselor in Training program in a New Jersey site. He learned tremendously in public speaking and debating skills in instructors' lab. He did not have experience in public speaking and debate when he started, until two years later he achieved a champion from a debate tournament in summer camp, this journey gave him a lot of confidence and fun. The director, senior and junior instructors there are kind, helpful and supportive to students. Every time my son was able to develop new friendship. He learned and grew a lot in counselor in training program by assisting instructors with supervising and leading young campers. He looks forward to going back to contribute more to this community and becoming a junior instructor one day. read more

Capitol Debate has been a wonderful addition to my daughter's extra-curricular activities. As a middle school student, she has further developed her reasoning skills and critical thinking within the Club Debate League. Her confidence in public speaking has increased exponentially. Her ability to effectively communicate has been a tremendous asset, not only in debate competitions, but also at school. In addition, she has evolved into a student who loves to learn about issues that effect our society and has become a global citizen who cares about pertinent issues. My daughter has made friends with like-minded students who value her opinions, as well as enjoys the rigors of a challenging and educated discussion. She will continue debating through high school and I would highly recommend Capitol Debate for the long-term. read more

I could not have been happier with my daughter's summer camp experience at Capitol Debate at American University in Washington DC. From the comprehensive debate prep, to the tournaments, to the fun extracurriculars such as ping pong night, to her 12-year-old self hysterically calling me from her dorm room for my credit card number because her late night debate research crew "needed" to order 30 milkshakes from Seamless (there's a cash limit apparently), the experience was transformative. She is already pleading with me to return next year to continue the cherished friendships from around the country she made at camp. Their topic of Universal Healthcare was not only timely, but having to debate the side she didn't agree with, was a great growth experience for her as well. I highly recommend Capitol Debate Summer Camps! read more

My daughter loves Capitol Debate! She started going to the summer camp 4 years ago, and has attended every year since. She has enjoyed it so much that she decided just this year also to join the club team during the school year. The weekly videoconferencing format allows her to get great coaching (the coaches are amazingly talented, experienced debaters) for the small group of 6 students. They meet online every week and prepare for in-person competitions that happen twice each season. I am thrilled with the way Capitol Debate has turned her on to researching effectively and communicating persuasively. She thinks more critically and loves every minute of it. She is prepared for higher levels of competition, which Capitol Debate offers as well. This is an amazing complete program. read more

Capitol debate has been my favorite camp so far. Not only is it educational, everyone there makes it so much more than that. It's a great place to open up more and learn to enjoy learning. I walked in not knowing anyone and came out having some of the awesomest friends. And not only that, I have developed such close relationships with the counselors there. Especially Blake Meyers. Blake is da bomb. He has put in all his effort to help each and every student to be the best that they can be. He is such a skilled debater and amazing influence. Definitely the kind of person who wouldn't leave you on "read". In fact all the counselors have been so good to everyone there. Shoutout to $Money (Stan Banks). It makes me so sad that camp is over. I'm sure to go back read more

Both my children attended Capitol Debate summer camp at SMU in Dallas, TX last summer. They absolutelly loved it!. The coordinators did a great job at providing us all the needed information. That was the fist time my children were away from home, however they never felt homesick. The staff at Capitol Debate made their days a busy learning experience and a very enjoyable time. The program is so well run. It was a challenging experience that changed my children way to see the public speaking world. They are more interested in learning about the latest world news and they are eager to express their oppinions. I love Capitol Debate Camp and I will definitivelty have my children do the camp again. read more

2nd year and Capital debate and new US director. He is fine but his daughter Joise Banks is complete, unreasonable person. She expects us to get be awake to do 3 debates in the afternoon when we go to sleep at 2 AM working on assignments. She then proceeds to imply that we are lazy and horrible people for having these done when we only needed to have them done by tonight, as said by our great instructor. She is a meager RA at best and should be fired in a appropriate slot of time. Besides that, the camp was great and I learned a lot, but this treatment is completely unfair as she thinks that we all should be held to her unreasonable standards. I attended the VillaNova Camp in 2018. read more

Capitol Debates was an amazing experience! Initially, as a novice debater, I was dreading the idea of a debate camp but capitol debate made it so easy and fun. Their lessons were constructive and evenly balanced with time to relax and form friendships. The icing on the cake was the instructors. Gabe Rusk, my instructor, and Blake Meyer, my RA, were amazing and taught me the essentials of debate. Both had impressive debate experience and were more than willing to impart that knowledge on the students. The administrative staff, including Chris the Life Director and Bradley Hicks the Camp director, made my time at camp run smoothly and were amazing people to know. read more

Capitol Debate was a wonderful experience as a novice trying to learn the ropes. Not only were the instructors helpful and honest but they were warm and friendly when asking about cases or evidence. Blake Meyer was tremendously helpful and would stay up for hours when looking for evidence or helping campers. Continuing on the man, the myth, the legend. Gabe Rusk was especially helpful and was well experienced, due to the fact he was a former National Champion. Not only was Capitol debate a swell time but a great program to sharpen and hone your debate skills. read more

My son has been participating in Capital Debate for the last 7 months. He really enjoys it and has become very confident speaking in public. I have seen great improvement in his ability to think through arguments and process his ideas. This organization helps build young leaders, introducing today's youth to political, social and controversial topics. It allows for students to understand what's going on in the world and empowers them to think for themselves. As a parent I am very happy with the results I am seeing. read more

My daughter has had the opportunity to attend 2 debate camps. They were very organized and had great debate subjects. The instructors gave detailed feedback throughout, with a mid and final report. Students had the opportunity to see recordings of themselves presenting, which was very helpful. They also made sure the kids had fun in the evenings/weekends, to balance the work they did during the days. I would recommend this camp for any child who wants to improve their public speaking slills and learn how to debate. read more