Applications for COCC's 10-day Mandarin Chinese immersion camp due March 6

Central Oregon Community College (COCC) is inviting applications for its Mandarin Chinese immersion camp, set to take place from July 7 to 18, 2025. This free 10-day program, funded by a National Security Agency STARTALK grant, is aimed at college students and high schoolers with little to no prior exposure to the Chinese language. Students will engage in 60 hours of immersive instruction designed to help them achieve mid-novice to high-novice proficiency. The camp will also offer unique cultural experiences, including a Chinese cooking class and a simulated street market, further enriching the educational experience. A total of 15 high school students and 10 college students will be selected to participate in the camp, which will be held at COCC's Chandler Lab in Bend.

Additionally, students have the option to earn college credit, with the possibility of receiving up to four credits at no cost after successfully completing the program. Applications are due by March 6, 2025, making it essential for interested students to apply promptly. This initiative not only promotes language learning but also fosters a deeper understanding of Chinese culture among young learners.