Common Questions
Who is eligible for this program?
Summer Session welcomes adult members of The Mother Church or branch churches and their spouses. A husband or wife need not be a Christian Scientist when attending with a spouse who is. A friend may attend with you who is sincerely studying Christian Science but who may not be a church member. Sorry, we cannot accept children under 18 at PACE programs.
Meals
Served cafeteria-style, meals are attractive and varied. A selection of entrées at lunch and dinner is complemented by fresh fruits and vegetables, a salad bar, homemade bread, soups, and desserts. Each sessioner carries a tray through the buffet line. A vegetarian entrée is available at each meal.
The Piasa Pub also offers meals and snacks. The Pub serves sandwiches, pizza, ice cream, and shakes until late at night and is a favorite gathering place for friends. Food from the Pub must be paid for in cash.
Accommodations
Most housing is in two-story campus dormitories with separate rooms accommodating one or two persons, and central bathrooms. Both air-conditioned and non-air rooms are available. The number of single rooms is limited. Some two-person rooms are available as singles at a higher price.
Most people share a room during the program. You may room with a friend or let us select a roommate for you. Long-term friendships are often formed this way, and we give the pairing of roommates thoughtful consideration.
The dorm rooms are furnished with a single bed, dresser, desk, and lamp for each person. Sheets, blankets, towels, and pillow are provided, as well as a fan in non-air-conditioned dorms.
Bathroom facilities have individual showers and toilet stalls but shared sink areas. If coming with a spouse, it is helpful to indicate if you prefer to be closer to the men’s or women’s bathroom.
Books and Supplies
Some books are suggested, but none are required. When you register for a class that requires supplies, such as an art class, you receive a list of those supplies in advance. The catalog also indicates some classes that require a lab or materials fee. The College bookstore carries most books and supplies that will be suggested by the faculty. The bookstore also carries gifts and personal care items.
Arrival Day
Summer Session begins Saturday evening with dinner and evening activities. A mid-afternoon arrival on campus is ideal to give you time to unpack and perhaps tour the campus. Please plan to arrive on campus no later than dinnertime (5:00–6:30pm). The session begins Saturday, July 19, for the first week, and Saturday, July 26, for the second week, with rooms available after 2:00pm.
Airport Shuttles
On opening and closing days, service is available between the airport and the campus 10:00am to 5:00pm. The cost is $50 round trip, including tip, which will be added to your Summer Session bill. Arrival outside this window may incur higher costs. Principia College is about an hour from the airport.
Departure Day
If you are flying, keep in mind that your airport van will leave the campus at least two hours prior to your flight time. We strongly advise that departure flights be no earlier than 10:00am.
Day Students
Prices include classes and on-campus activities, but no meals.
Recreational Vehicles
A limited number of RV hookups are available. Please advise us early to reserve one. Day student charges apply, plus an additional charge of $15 per night.
Distances on Campus
A three- to five-minute walk between dormitory and dining room or classes is the average. A limited tram service runs regular routes between dorms and the campus center.
Stairs
Please note that most buildings on campus do not have elevators, and many classrooms are located on the second floor. If your dorm room must be located on the ground floor, please be sure to let us know.
Disabilities
Guests needing special assistance with personal care or getting around will need to bring a companion at their expense. A limited number of golf carts are available to rent for those with a clear physical need. Please make your request in advance. Spouses who are not Christian Scientists or who use medication should be aware that Principia is rurally located and has no medical facilities or personnel on campus, nor are there any such facilities within the immediate Elsah area. The nearest hospitals are in Jerseyville and Alton, each about 30 minutes from campus. Principia is a tobacco-free and alcohol-free community. If you have any questions, please contact the PACE office when applying.
