You Asked; We Answered.
Below are some “Frequently Asked Questions” about Oklahoma Close Up (OKCU), registration, and general questions about the program. Should you have any further questions, please consult our Contact Us page.
How do I get started?
If you are a teacher – Register your school, read over all our pages here, and if you have any other questions please use our “Contact Page” to contact our Program Chair. If you are Student coordinate with one of your high school teacher and have them get involved.
Why should I attend? Click Here!
How much does Oklahoma Close Up cost? Click Here!
When is my registration form due?
All registration forms must be submitted online by both students and teachers/adults. Online Registration will be available from August 1 through December 31.
Can a student enroll after the registration date?
Late registration will be available from January 1 through January 31. Please note that there will be a $25.00 late fee per student charged for those registrations received after December 31.
What other forms are needed for participation?
The following forms need to be printed, signed and brought the day of registration:
Your Copy of General Rules for OKCU Participants
Who can participate in Oklahoma Close Up?
Any and All High School Student(s) (Students in grades 9-12). A minimum GPA or previous leadership experience is not required.
Can students leave program to visit family or friends and/or have family or friends visit while on program?
For the security of participants, no visitors are allowed on program nor the leaving of program. Teachers are required to bring students with them. No student participant will be permitted to use his/her own car while attending Oklahoma Close Up. Program participants my drive themselves to the start of program, however, for the duration of the program the vehicles keys need to be secured by the sponsoring teacher.
Is there security restrictions at the Capitol?
Yes. Security is extensive; the less you carry, the easier it will be to get through the checkpoints. You will enter the Capitol and always remain in your small groups. Please keep in mind that others work in the Capitol building and will be screened as well. During our entrance to the Capitol please allow these to enter before you.
What should I wear?
For shadowing, students are expected to dress up. Coat and tie for the men and dress or business suit for the young women. Outside of the hotel, ‘nice school clothes’ will work, please keep in mind we have the pleasure of sitting in on an Accelerated Court Docket, with the Oklahoma Court of Criminal Appeals, meeting with appellate court judges and other state-wide elected officials. Back at the hotel simple casual school attire will be appropriate. Many of our students wish to dress up for the final banquet and dance on Thursday night, this is left up to each student. Baseball caps or other headgear, bare midriffs and sunglasses (indoors) are not acceptable.
Should I bring my own prescription medicine(s)?
Yes. You need to bring an adequate supply of medication and will be responsible for self-medicating while on program. Please notify us in advance if you require your medication to be refrigerated. The signing of the Program Terms and Conditions warrant the participant will self-medicate while on OKCU’s program. A medical professional is on program for those participants who become ill.
Can male participants visit female participants and/or female participants visit male participants hotel rooms?
No room visitation between male and female participants is permitted. Security guards are provided by Oklahoma Close Up.
Can I bring my cell phone or other electronic devices?
Cell phones & other electronic devices (e.g., iPods & MP# players, computers) must be turned off during speakers and breakout sessions.
What is ‘Shadowing’ all about?
Oklahoma Close Up students participate in the “Shadowing” program. The Close Up staff will make arrangements and assign students to spend the day with a State Senator, Representative, or other office holder.
Do I need to bring money for lunch during my day of Shadowing?
Yes; it is a good idea to bring a little extra cash. Depending on the schedule of your legislator, he/she may or may not invite you to lunch. If not, you may purchase lunch at the vending machines/snack bar in the basement or the snack bar on the forth floor.
Other Shadowing Helpful Hints: Click Here!
Below is a link to our 2018 Oklahoma Close Up Program (schedule speakers and daily activities):
Helpful Teacher/Student Links: Click Here!
Where do we stay during the program?
Holiday Inn, Oklahoma City North
6200 N. Robinson Ave
Oklahoma City, OK 73118
405.286-4777
Directions and Reservation for those teachers paying for their own room: Click Here
When I registered my school, I clicked “I prefer a single room. I will make my own arrangements and pay for my own room.” What do I do now?
Holiday Inn, Oklahoma City North
6200 N. Robinson Ave
Oklahoma City, OK 73118
405.286-4777
A great overview of Oklahoma Close Up
Please share this power-point with your teacher and/or students to show more of what takes place during this exciting week: Oklahoma Close Up Point-point Overview