Below are commonly asked questions about writing camp. If you have further inquiries, please email them to swc@msu.edu

Who is Spartan Writing Camp suited for?

Spartan Writing Camp (SWC) is suited best for students rising into grades 1 thru 8 who enjoy writing. The purpose of the camp is to expose students to new genres and experiences related to writing using the campus of Michigan State University and all of its offerings for story ideas and inspiration. SWC is not geared for remediation or intervention with writing.

What does the camp week look like?

Spartan Writing Camp operates Monday thru Thursday. Full day camps begin at 9:00 and end at 3:30. Half day camps run from either 9:00-12:00 or 12:30-3:30. See our camp offerings to see which sessions are half day vs full day.

What will my child do while at camp?

A typical day at SWC starts in the classroom at Bessey Hall. The teacher plans the day with short lessons related to the camp session genre and takes the students out to various locations around campus to observe and collect story ideas. Depending on the camp session, your child could interact with an expert in a given field on campus, observe in a garden, visit the museum, feed the ducks, or whatever else the teacher feels would be appropriate to utilize while on campus. 

What does my child need to bring to camp?

Your child will need comfortable shoes to walk around campus in, a water bottle, a bagged lunch (please refrain from sending foods that need warming), a hat, umbrella if the weather calls for one, sunscreen, and an open mind.

Where will I drop off and pick up my child?

All SWC sessions are held in Bessey Hall. There is a surface lot behind the building that we utilize for drop off and pick up. You will receive detailed instructions about drop off/pick up before camp begins.

When will I receive information about my child’s specific camp session?

Enrollment will close for all camps no later than June 1. You will receive an email from the camp director, Jill Hoort, from the SWC email account with  pertinent information about your child’s camp session no later than June 5.

What if I need to cancel my child’s enrollment?

While we understand schedules change, it is important that you cancel your child’s registration as soon as possible. We will charge a 20% cancellation fee to cover costs. Our camp sessions often have wait lists, so please be mindful when registering your child that they will be in attendance.