Frequently Asked Questions
(FAQS)
General Questions
What is PALS?
Peace Ambassador Leadership Summit (PALS) is a week-long youth-led leadership summit designed to develop leadership, communication, and life skills in high school students aged 14-18.
What makes PALS different from other leadership programs?
PALS stands out due to its unique, youth-led approach that focuses on interactive learning rather than traditional lectures, emphasizing real-world skills and community service.
Can international students attend PALS?
Yes, PALS welcomes international students. Participants are responsible for securing their travel and appropriate visas.
Who organizes PALS?
PALS is organized by the National Voices for Equality, Education, and Enlightenment (NVEEE), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.
What type of food should I bring and how much should I bring?
It is highly suggested that students bring snacks, bottled water, or any specialty food items they made need throughout the summit.
What is PALS's policy on inclusivity and diversity?
PALS is committed to creating an inclusive and supportive environment for all students. We welcome diversity in all its forms and strive for equity to ensure every participant feels valued and respected.
Program Structure and Logistics
When and where is PALS held?
PALS is hosted annually at various university campuses. Please refer to www.nveee.org/pals or contact us at pals@nveee.org for additional questions.
| University of Central Florida | June 15-21 |
| University of Florida | June 23-27 |
| Florida International University | July 14-21 |
| Georgetown University | June 23-27 |
What topics are covered in the PALS curriculum?
The curriculum at all locations includes leadership development, effective communication, financial literacy, college and career readiness, and community service. In addition to the general curriculum, each location will have workshops based on the location-specific theme, which can be found on its designated page on our website.
How are roommates selected for the summit?
Roommates are typically assigned by PALS based on age, sex, and general interests. Participants can also request their roommates on the Pre-Event Survey.
How does PALS ensure the safety of participants?
Safety is our top priority. We have comprehensive safety protocols in place that have been approved by the Youth Protection Department at each university. Students will be closely chaperoned, the lodgings are close to the campus police departments, and each floor may have multiple Resident Assistants (RAs) stationed. There is a strict adherence to university campus security policies. NVEEE follows university guidelines on chaperones with an 8:1 ratio.
What does a typical day at PALS look like?
Wake-up is generally around 7:00. Morning activity is from 8:15-9:00 AM where they can choose an activity like yoga, running, meditation, etc. Breakfast is from 9-9:30. Classes begin at 10 AM. Each day at PALS is filled with interactive workshops, group discussions, team-building activities, and opportunities for personal growth. Schedules can be found on the pages of each PALS location.
How many community service hours can participants earn?
Participants can earn 30-50 community service hours through involvement in PALS community service projects.
Will meals be provided during PALS?
Yes, all meals are included in the required meal plan and will be provided throughout the duration of the summit. Meals will either be catered or provided through the school’s dining halls.
Will there be any specific activities unique to PALS?
Yes, PALS offers several unique activities tailored to enrich the program experience. All PALS locations will host a prom. It’s important to note that aside from the Capitol Tour and White House Tour at Georgetown, all students remain on campus throughout the program duration. Refer to the posted schedule for location-specific activities.
How are the workshops at PALS conducted?
Workshops are interactive and facilitated by trained junior counselors, senior counselors, college interns, university professors, and community organizations to encourage active participation and hands-on learning.
Where do students stay during PALS?
During PALS, both students and staff are accommodated in the campus dorms. Dorms will be organized with separate floors designated by sex. See the dedicated page for each location for housing specifics.
Can dietary restrictions be accommodated at PALS?
Yes, please inform us of any dietary restrictions during registration so we can make the necessary arrangements.
What facilities will we use during PALS?
We utilize a variety of facilities, including classrooms for workshops, outdoor spaces for team activities, and the student union for larger gatherings. The universities make every effort to accommodate our requests based on occupancy; we will know the final locations within 30 days of arrival. Check our website and emails for updates.
For more detailed information or other inquiries, please reach out to the PALS team at FIU at pals@nveee.org. We’re excited to provide a memorable and enriching experience for all participants at this vibrant campus!
Local Travelers📍
Do local students need to stay overnight at the campus?
Yes, to fully immerse in the PALS experience, we encourage participants to stay on campus even if they live nearby. With required approval in certain circumstances, we allow students to commute as long as the parent/guardian can ensure pick-up and drop-off for all program times. In these circumstances, they are still required to pay the entire program fee.
Is parking available for local students who drive to the campus?
Yes, parking is available for local students who drive to the campus. Please note that parking charges may vary depending on the location. Detailed information regarding parking fees will be provided at a later date.
Is there a specific drop-off and pick-up area for students?
Yes, there will be designated drop-off and pick-up areas. These locations will be communicated in your welcome packet.
Travelers✈️
What is the nearest airport to each PALS location?
| Florida International University (FIU) | Miami International (MIA) or Fort Lauderdale (FLL) |
| Georgetown University (GU) | Reagan International (DCA) |
| University of Central Florida (UCF) | Orlando International (MCO) |
| University of Florida | Gainesville (GNV) |
Does PALS provide airport pick-up and drop-off for travelers?
Unfortunately, we do not provide transportation services for delegates due to insurance and liability purposes. We recommend that delegates organize carpooling via Uber or Lyft from local airports to the University campus, which can be done through parent communication in our designated chat forums.
We highly recommend Uber due to their ridesharing feature; with this feature, you will be able to track the status of your child’s ride to monitor their safe arrival and departure.
Please notify us if your child will be arriving prior to morning check-in. Arriving a day earlier will incur additional housing and meal costs for one night for early arrival for approximately $70. As our staff will not be on site until a day prior to the summit commencement, we unfortunately cannot accommodate any earlier arrival dates.
What is the deadline for travelers to inform PALS of their travel plans?
We request that travelers email pals@nveee.org with their travel plans as soon as they are made or at least two weeks prior to the program start date. This advance notice allows us ample time to make necessary arrangements to ensure the participants’ smooth and seamless experience.
Is there flexibility in having an earlier check-in or later check-out for travelers?
If it is absolutely necessary, we can provide accommodation for early arrival or later departure, based on university policy. They may arrive the evening before with prior approval, but no activities will be planned, and students will have to stay with the staff at all times. An additional cost for a night of housing and meals will be incurred. Please plan accordingly and inform us as soon as possible, no later than three weeks prior to the start date. Email us at pals@nveee.org to request travel accommodations.
International Travelers🌐
What type of insurance do international students need?
International students should have travel insurance covering medical, travel interruption, and emergency evacuation.
What support is available for international students who might experience culture shock?
PALS offers support through our staff and peer mentors, who are trained to help students adjust and feel comfortable in the new environment.
Registration and Fees
How can I register for PALS?
Registration can be completed online through our website. Space is limited, so we encourage early registration.
What is the deadline for registering for PALS?
Deadlines vary by location and session. Please check our website or contact the program directly for specific deadlines.
Priority Registration Deadline
June 2nd, 2024
Payment Plan Deadline
| University of Central Florida (UCF) | May 5th, 2024 |
| University of Florida (UF) | May 5th, 2024 |
| Florida International University (FIU) | June 16th, 2024 |
| Georgetown University (GU) | June 30th, 2024 |
For Students📚
Will I have free time during PALS?
While the schedule is structured, students will have free time to relax, reflect, and socialize with peers in a supervised setting.
What should I bring to PALS?
A packing list will be provided, but it generally includes comfortable clothes, personal items, and a readiness to learn and grow.
What should I bring to the program each day?
Students should bring essential items like notebooks, writing utensils, a refillable water bottle, and any personal items they may need throughout the day.
What kind of activities will I participate in at PALS?
You’ll engage in diverse activities, including workshops on leadership styles, team-building exercises, creative arts for self-expression, and community service projects.
Will we have access to recreational facilities during the summit?
Due to the liability, participants will not have access to recreational facilities.
Can I choose the workshops I want to attend at PALS?
We all attend the same workshops. However, on Career Day, you can choose a workshop based on your career choice.
How are the groups at PALS organized?
Participants are typically organized into groups based on age and interests to ensure a supportive learning environment. Group activities are designed to encourage collaboration and peer learning.
What if I’m shy or have trouble speaking in front of people?
PALS is a supportive environment where you can practice public speaking and leadership at your own pace. We offer workshops that specifically help build confidence in public speaking and self-expression.
How can I make the most out of the PALS experience?
Be open to meeting new people, trying new activities, and stepping out of your comfort zone. The more you engage with the program, the more you will benefit from it.
Are meals provided at PALS, and can dietary restrictions be accommodated?
Yes, all meals are provided during the program. We can accommodate all dietary restrictions with prior notice at the time of registration.
Will there be time to study or work on college applications during PALS?
The schedule is quite full, but there may be some downtime in the evenings. If you have pressing academic work, it’s best to plan ahead and manage your time accordingly.
Is there a dress code for PALS?
We recommend comfortable, casual attire for daily activities. Please bring two business casual outfits for special events or presentations.
What should I do if I get lost on campus?
You won’t be alone to ever be lost. However, We will provide you with a campus map, and our PALS staff will be available to assist you. For immediate assistance, you can contact your Jr. Counselor.
Can I bring electronics like my phone or laptop to PALS?
Yes, but we encourage you to use them responsibly. Certain sessions and activities may require you to be fully present without the distraction of electronic devices.
Is there Wi-Fi available on each campus?
Yes, there is free Wi-Fi available across the campus. You will be given login details upon arrival.
After PALS
How can I stay involved with NVEEE after the summit?
We encourage high school alumni to participate in our Peace Ambassador Leadership Program in follow-up events, and some may be invited to return as junior counselors. College student alumni are also welcome to apply to our internship program. Visit our website to learn about our other programs.
What opportunities are available for PALS alumni?
Alumni have access to mentorship programs networking events, and can return as peer leaders or junior counselors.
For more specific inquiries about PALS at individual locations (e.g., UF, UCF, FIU, GU), please refer to the dedicated pages on our website or reach out directly via our contact form.