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Participate in America in One Room: The Youth Vote

You have the chance to play a part in this historic deliberative initiative!

We’re spotlighting a representative sample of young America!

In July 2024, all eyes turned to our nation’s capital as Close Up, the Deliberative Democracy Lab at Stanford University (DDL), Helena, the Generation Lab, and the Neely Center at the University of Southern California convened America in One Room: The Youth Vote, a historic gathering of first-time voters. The idea? To engage in deliberation around the issues facing our country with nearly 500 young Americans of all backgrounds, communities, and worldviews.

Although this year’s in-person event in Washington, D.C., has now concluded, there is still a way for you to participate in this groundbreaking deliberative initiative. Together with DDL, Close Up is expanding on America in One Room: The Youth Vote to host online deliberations for high school, middle school, and university students nationwide. These recurring events foster critical thinking, reasoned dialogue, and informed citizenship among young people, with the potential to build the vital skills of deliberation in generations to come.

LEARN MORE > REGISTER TODAY >

 What happens at America in One Room: The Youth Vote?

America in One Room: The Youth Vote takes place over the course of four days in Washington, D.C. Through an application process, we convene a truly representative and scientific sample of first-time voters to:

  • Engage in small-and large-group discussions of pressing issues facing the country.
  • Share their opinions and attitudes in pre-and post-event surveys.
  • Contribute their perspectives to a published report on youth priorities.
  • Return home as Civic Ambassadors ready to hold their own deliberations with peers.

The program is underwritten by a nonpartisan philanthropy, so if you apply and are selected, there is no cost to participate. America in One Room: The Youth Vote pays for all travel to and from Washington, hotel accommodations, and meals. All we ask of you is to be 18 and eligible to cast your first vote by Election Day and to engage in thoughtful issue discussions with your peers

Would you like to participate in this once-in-a-lifetime event? Fill out our interest form today!

 

What does the D.C. program schedule include?

DAY 1

DAY 2

DAY 3

DAY 4

Welcome Dinner & Orientation

Opening Workshop:  What are the biggest issues we face in our democracy today?

Facts & Fun: Ultimate Trivia Night: Show off your knowledge of Washington with teammates from across the country

 

 

 

 

Breakfast

Deliberation #1: Environment 

Panel #1: Environment 

Lunch and Neighborhood Visit: Get off the beaten path in neighborhoods such as Dupont Circle and Chinatown

Deliberation #2: The Economy & Workforce 

Panel #2: The Economy & Workforce 

Dinner and Night Monuments Tour: Explore Washington’s most famous landmarks as they illuminate the night sky!

Breakfast

Deliberation #3: Health Care

Panel #3: Health Care

Lunch and Neighborhood Visit: Explore Washington behind the scenes in vibrant areas such as U Street and Eastern Market

Deliberation #4: Democracy & Elections

Panel #4: Democracy & Elections 

Dinner and Evening Activity: Have a memorable, fun-filled evening with new friends!

 

Breakfast

Closing Workshop: How will you stay active and engaged as a Civic Ambassador?

Closing Activities & Group Reflection

Lunch and Departures

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

For any media inquiries, please contact us at media@closeup.org.

 

FAQs

Who is eligible to participate in America in One Room: The Youth Vote?

Student participants must be 18 and eligible to cast their first vote by Election Day. Participants can be rising high school seniors or rising college freshmen at the time of the program, but they must be 18 years old and eligible to vote by Election Day. 

Is there a cost for students to participate?

No. The program is underwritten by a nonpartisan philanthropy, so there is no cost for students to participate. If you are selected for the in-person program, America in One Room: The Youth Vote will pay for all travel to and from Washington, hotel accommodations, and meals during the program. If you are not selected for the in-person program, you will have the chance to participate in virtual activities as the event takes place.

Do students travel independently or with school chaperones?

This program opportunity is for students only. Students must be able to travel by themselves. Upon acceptance, Close Up will be in communication with students and parents to ensure that they are prepared for travel and know what to expect on the program.

We will arrange roundtrip transportation and greet students upon arrival in D.C. Close Up staff will oversee the supervision of students during the program.

Who will arrange transportation?

Close Up will book all transportation for student participants. We book roundtrip transportation from a designated departure point in each region to Washington, D.C. We use all three airports in the Washington metropolitan area: Washington Dulles (IAD), Reagan National (DCA), and Baltimore Washington International (BWI). Students will be greeted at the airport, escorted to a coach bus, and transferred to the hotel by Close Up staff. For students who live closer to the Washington area, we may book Amtrak train travel into Washington Union Station (WAS). Participants can also choose to drive to Washington to be dropped off for the program and picked up afterwards.

Where do participants stay?

Close Up uses national hotel chains such as Marriott, Sheraton, and Hyatt in the Washington metropolitan area. All hotel information will be given to participants as well as parents/guardians as soon as students are accepted into the program. 

What if a student gets sick?

Close Up has a partnership with Georgetown Pediatrics, which will help to provide medical support when necessary. Students and parents must fill out the required medical forms before arrival and provide a copy of their insurance card.  

How are students supervised?

Students are supervised 24/7. Close Up program instructors guide students throughout the day. In the evenings, Close Up night monitors are stationed in the hallways of the hotel. Students are also given a 24/7 contact number in case of an emergency.   

Do students need to bring additional spending money?

Students may travel with additional money for souvenirs if they are interested, but it is not required. 

What should students wear?

Casual, comfortable attire is acceptable throughout the week.   

Is there a virtual program opportunity?

Students who are not selected for the in-person event are invited to take part in a virtual deliberation and livestream of the expert panel seminar on one day of the program. This is a fantastic opportunity to talk to your peers nationwide, make your voice heard, and play an integral part in America in One Room: The Youth Vote!

Who should I contact if I have questions?

Feel free to email us at oneroom@closeup.org with any questions!