Frequently Asked Questions
Table of Contents
FOCUS Leaders
When do FOCUS leaders have to be on campus?
FOCUS Leaders should be on campus by Wednesday, August 13th. Training for leaders will begin on Thursday, August 14th. On rare occasions, students may be able to move in as early as Monday, August 11th, but will need special permission from the Dean’s Office before moving in.
Are FOCUS leaders responsible for paying for meals/housing?
All students living on campus will be able to move into their rooms early at no cost to the student. Throughout the FOCUS program, all meals will be provided via Yale Hospitality and Dining.
Is there a stipend for FOCUS leaders and support staff?
Yes! A stipend of $350 is paid by the Dean’s Office. This stipend covers preparation for the program, move-in support on August 17th, and leadership throughout the program.
What are the responsibilities of FOCUS leaders?
Leaders will work in pairs to oversee a group of 10 to 12 incoming students and provide guidance and support throughout the FOCUS program.
Is past participation in the FOCUS program required for leaders?
Not at all!
What is the time commitment for Leaders?
There is a mandatory pre-program training beginning on Thursday, August 14th to the 19th for roughly 3 hours each day, with a day off to help with first-year move-in. Pre-orientation programs run all day from August 20th to the 24th. Specific schedules for each group will be distributed during Leader Training.
What is the role of a Support Crew Member in the program?
Support Crew are on campus throughout the program and provide support for logistical tasks and any urgent needs. Responsibilities include driving cars, supply runs, and more!
Applying to FOCUS On New Haven
Do I automatically get into FOCUS if I submit an application?
We’d love to have everyone join in the FOCUS fun, but spots are limited, so we can’t always accommodate all who apply. Don’t worry, though—there’s a quick review process, and you’ll find out over the summer if you’ve been accepted.
How will I know if I have been admitted to FOCUS?
You’ll get an email from us letting you know the exciting news! Keep an eye on your inbox for a warm welcome to the FOCUS family.
Is there any fee associated with participating in FOCUS?
Great news—there’s no fee to join FOCUS, or any Camp Yale Program for that matter!
General FOCUS Programming
What is FOCUS, exactly?
Think of FOCUS as the adventure-packed service orientation program of Camp Yale! You’ll work alongside our community partners all around the city, working on missions ranging from environmental justice to even criminal justice reform. Plus, you’ll get to attend speaker events where you can chat with community leaders and dive into the rich history of Yale and New Haven’s relationship. Your FOCUS leaders will be your guides to the vibrant culture and community of NHV, taking you to museums, vintage stores, libraries, and the trendiest restaurants.
Is there a ray of hope that amidst all this FOCUS-ing, I’ll make a friend?
Is New Haven called the Elm City? You bet! And just like the elms, you’ll branch out and meet plenty of other FOCUSers. Everyone will be placed into a FOCUS family, complete with your very own FOCUS parents (a.k.a. two upperclassmen). With our FOCUS families, you’ll soon discover that the real treasure was the friends you made along the way!
When do I find out where I will be volunteering?
You’ll get an email from us about volunteering sites by August 5th followed by your FOCUS leaders reaching out by August 10th!
Where will I stay during FOCUS?
Once you move in on August 18th, you’ll get to settle in and stay put for the entire school year, including during FOCUS!
My family/friends really want to visit me during FOCUS. Would it be possible for me to take a break in the middle of FOCUS to spend some time with them?
While we understand the excitement of having your loved ones visit, FOCUS is designed to provide a continuous and immersive experience for all participants. Unfortunately, we can’t accommodate students leaving in the middle of the program.
Health & Safety Measures
With all this FOCUS-ing, will we get to eat?
A special shoutout to our FOCUS Health, Safety, & Accessibility coordinator, the mastermind behind ensuring your meals align perfectly with your dietary needs! During FOCUS, you’ll enjoy picnic-style meals, courtesy of the Yale dining halls!
My friends in FOOT and Harvest are experiencing life without showers. Are we destined to follow in their fragrant footsteps, or will we get to shower?
As much as we’d love to embrace our inner wilderness explorers, fear not! You’ll have access to your dorm showers, so you can leave the wild odors to the great outdoors and not your new friends.
What type of training do FOCUS Leaders receive?
Through the Office of Gender and Campus Culture, all FOCUS leaders complete training on building a positive culture, recognizing bias, and handling situations involving prohibited substances and sexual misconduct. Before the program begins, leaders come together for three days for additional skills training in managing small groups, communication, and leadership. FOCUS follows the general guidance of Yale’s Undergraduate Regulations and goes further to include a zero-tolerance policy concerning alcohol and other potentially harmful behavior. The program is built to be a safe place for students of all backgrounds and identities.