Summer@Cornish Residency Program
Registration open by December 20, 2025 - Sign up for the waitlist to be notified here!
The Summer@Cornish Residency Program offers an intensive arts experience for students ages 14-18, providing the perfect opportunity to live and learn in the heart of Seattle. In this 4-week program, participants reside with our partner neighbor, Level Seattle a modern, high-rise located steps from their classes in South Lake Union. With easy access to iconic attractions like the Space Needle and the Seattle Art Museum, students will engage with the vibrant arts scene while enjoying a supportive residential community managed by Cornish’s dedicated team. Below, we’ve compiled answers to some frequently asked questions to help you prepare for this exciting summer journey. Summer@Cornish FAQ information here.
Level Seattle Information
1. Where is the housing located for Summer@Cornish?
Our Summer@Cornish Residential Program is excited to partner with our neighbors next to our main campus building, Level Seattle. Students staying at Level Seattle will have many more resources and activities than most summer fine arts programs. You can read about those activities and resources here. Level Seattle is just steps away from Summer@Cornish classes in the Main Campus Center (MCC).
2. What activities and attractions are nearby?
Students have easy access to some of the city’s best attractions including the Space Needle, SIFF, MoHAI, and MoPop. Parks nearby include the South Lake Union waterfront and Seattle Center. Students can explore the rich arts scene with visits to local galleries and the Seattle Art Museum. Learn more about Seattle & South Lake Union activities. Please also read about the amenities students will have access to at Level here.
3. Who manages residential life for Summer@Cornish students?
The Residential Program for Summer@Cornish students is managed by Michael Callaizakis, Director of Seattle U Extension (including Cornish+). Michael has been working with the Summer@Cornish program for 10+ years. He leads a professional team of Program Assistants (PAs) who live on-site and provide supervision, mentorship, and safety support throughout the program.
4. What are the room arrangements like?
Students are housed in double rooms designed to foster connection and community. All Summer@Cornish residents live on the same designated floor, supervised by two trained RAs who reside alongside students to provide daily guidance and ensure safety.
5. What is the cost of housing and the program?
Summer@Cornish is offered as an all-inclusive four-week experience priced at $9,650, which covers tuition, housing, and weekday meals. Students are encouraged to bring optional spending money for weekend activities. Need-based scholarships are available, and residential student scholarship applications are due February 14th.
*Due to citywide cost increases associated with Seattle hosting the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the Summer@Cornish Residency Program Package will increase to $9,650. This adjustment ensures we can maintain high-quality housing, facilities, and program resources during a period of elevated regional demand.
6. What is included outside of Summer@Cornish program for residential students?
Residential students participate in a full calendar of guided activities and events throughout the program, including visits to Pike Place Market and the Waterfront, the Frye Art Museum, Salt & Straw, the SLU Saturday Market, the Center for Wooden Boats, the Seattle Art Museum, Alki Beach via Water Taxi, and the Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP). Evening programming includes movie nights, trivia/Kahoot, game nights, Theater Nights, and scheduled rehearsal or studio time. Additional outings feature Seattle’s vibrant food, arts, and live-music scene, along with seasonal city events that give students a broader cultural experience during their stay.
7. How does the meal plan work?
Weekday meals are provided by Bon Appétit at Nellie’s Café inside the MCC. On weekends, students may cook meals in the fully equipped kitchen in their rooms or dine independently at nearby local restaurants. Whole Foods and a wide variety of restaurant options are just steps from Level Seattle. See nearby dining options here.
8. Can I fly alone as a minor?
Yes! Students can fly alone as a minor by following the specific airline guidelines for each airline. Students will be picked up and our Summer@Cornish representative must be added on the guardian contact form. Please see an example of this process from Alaska Airlines here.
9. How do I register for the Summer@Cornish Residential Program?
Registration open by December 20, 2025 - Sign up for the waitlist to be notified here!
To begin, please complete the Residential Program apply here. Once submitted, you will receive an email with a registration code that unlocks access to your Summer@Cornish course selection, including your morning Intensive and two afternoon Electives. When you enter the code at checkout, it will automatically apply your housing package + tuition, and you may choose to pay a deposit or the full amount to confirm your spot.
Have more questions? Please contact Michael, at mcallaizakis@cornish.edu. If you'd like to schedule a 1:1 session with Michael, please click here to schedule now.
