Accommodations

Students should be prepared for varying weather. Days will likely be warm to hot and windy with nights cool to cold. You should be prepared for extended periods of time in both. Long periods of sun exposure are likely. Layering will be key. A list of suggested and mandatory items to bring will be provided upon acceptance. All accommodations are under shared living conditions with limited privacy.
From July 16-August 3, students will stay at the Laura Stein Volunteer Camp (about 5 miles away from Avalon) in platform tents and bunks that sleep 8 with an outdoor kitchen facility and 2 restroom/showers. All students will be required to participate in daily camp chores.
From August 4-August 14, students will stay in double and triple occupancy dorm rooms with shared bathrooms located at the USC Wrigley Marine Center. PCIAP reserves the right to change the housing location. Should this become necessary, we will arrange comparable accommodations elsewhere.
Meals:
All meals will be communal events prepared by a cook with few options as we are located on an island in a remote location. Specialized diets (vegan, kosher, etc.) are difficult to maintain in this location. You should make sure Dr. Teeter is aware of any food allergies or restrictions as soon as possible and she will work with staff to accommodate the need as best possible. Please keep this in mind while packing for the season and ensure that you have enough prescription medication. There is a limited pharmacy in Avalon and no pharmacy in Two Harbors.
Excursions:
We will have a number of tours of Catalina Island focusing on different aspects of this rich environment. Experts will lead tours on local history, ecology, biology, geology, and archaeology. This program has limited free time for independent sightseeing. Please consult with the faculty about independent travel during the program.