Photos and quotes from Encounters participants.

Frequently Asked Questions


Here are some questions and answers that apply to all of our residential summer Encounters programs.  For program specific information, please see the FAQ listed under each individual program.
What does tuition include?
Tuition includes all program related expenses (housing on campus and all meals).  The tuition does not include costs of transportation to and from Boston, laundry (machines are located in the dormitories), or spending money.  Tuition does not include student visas for international students. Each Encounters program offers several opportunities for participants to explore Boston and other destinations off campus.  Click here to see tuition amounts for each program.

How will I get to Brandeis University?
You can arrive at Brandeis University in Waltham, Massachusetts via car, airplane or train. Program staff will meet you and provide transportation from Boston Logan International Airport or the Route 128 Amtrak Station nearby. You are expected to make your own travel arrangements. 

Where will I live at Brandeis University?
You will live in double occupancy rooms in two single-sex dormitories. Participants live on the campus of Brandeis University, in residence halls.  Male and female participants live in separate buildings in the same quad on campus, and are not permitted to enter the other residence hall.

How are roommates determined?
All of our programs at Encounters provide participants with the opportunity to engage with people from different backgrounds and cultures, from all over the world.  One of the places where this happens is in the dormitories, where you are assigned a roommate.  Roommates often come from different places, or have different life experiences and traditions.  Everyone is accepted for who they are as individuals, and diversity is embraced.

What dining options are available for participants?
 Participants eat at the Sherman Dining Hall on campus at Brandeis University.  The dining hall maintains separate Kosher and non-Kosher dining options at every meal, but regardless of the option they choose, participants are encouraged to eat together and enjoy the opportunity to get to know one another better.  Sherman has a wide selection of food, including a daily salad and sandwich bar and hot food options. We also offer vegetarian options, and are able to accommodate most gluten allergies.

How much free time is there?
 With so much to learn, do, and experience each week, our days at Brandeis are busy. But we make time to recharge each day, and offer the participants the opportunity to relax and enjoy each other’s company.  Free time is your chance to chill out, socialize, exercise, read, etc.  Organized off-campus day trips also provide a great opportunity to explore Boston and its surroundings, and enjoy time with new friends.  

What happens in the event of a medical issue?
 Participants will have access to the University Health Center.  Each weekday, participants who require medical care are accompanied to the Health Center, and parents/guardians will receive a phone call about their concerns and treatment.  We also have quick access to a hospital a few miles from campus if emergency services are required.  Participant families are responsible for any hospital and testing fees and will be required to work with the Encounters office to arrange any ongoing medical care that a participant may require.

How do I contact Encounters at Brandeis University?

Phone:    (781) 736-8416
Fax:        (815) 301-2874
Email:     highschool@brandeis.edu

Encounters at Brandeis University
415 South Street, MS 065
Waltham, MA 02454-9110