Dissertation Writer's Retreat FAQ

Expand All | Collapse All

1. Who is eligible?
Doctoral students who have successfully completed their comprehensive exams; have selected an approved topic; and are currently working with an advisor, chair, or mentor may attend.
2. What will I be doing?
You will be spending most of your time writing in your room or at a comfortable spot you find nearby. You'll also be able to sign up for appointments with writing program faculty – library specialists, IRB specialist and research methodologists for one or more 20-minute conferences. Finally, you can attend elective workshops on various topics.
3. What's happening on Tuesday?
All the students in the retreat and the faculty will check in from 6:00 - 7:00 p.m. for an overview of the retreat. A light reception or snack will be provided.
4. Do I have to make my own hotel accommodations?
No. Your room is included in the price of the retreat. We will make hotel accommodations for you. In addition, complimentary in-room Internet will be provided.
5. I live in the area. Do I have to stay at the host hotel?
Yes. Because the purpose of the retreat is to remove you from the stresses of daily life to allow you to concentrate on writing your dissertation, you must stay at the host hotel.
6. When and where do I check-in?
Check-in is on the first day of the retreat at 6:00 p.m. in the "Retreat Club Room" at the hotel. Please refer to the hotel reader board for the exact meeting room name and location. You will receive the schedule and your name badge, which you will need for meals.
7. What should I bring?
Bring your notes, articles, and books, laptop, APA manual and a USB flash drive so that you can take advantage of the print station.
8. What should I wear?
Dress as comfortably as you like. The entire retreat is intended to be casual, and focused on what you need to make significant progress on your dissertation. We encourage you to consider exercising regularly, so bring whatever gear you need to run, walk, swim, etc. Also, if you want to go out for dinner with fellow writers, you might throw in some business casual clothes for evenings out.
9. How do I get to the hotel from the airport?
Transportation to and from the Dissertation Writer's Retreat (DWR) is your responsibility. You may find helpful transportation information on the host DWR hotel's website.
10. What meals are provided, and can my guest join me for the meals?
The Dissertation Retreat will provide a continental breakfast, lunch, and an afternoon snack on most days of the retreat. There is a light reception or snack on the first evening of the retreat. Meals are only for Dissertation Retreat attendees. Guest (this includes spouses and children) can inquire with the hotel for suggestions to dining.
11. How do I cancel?
To cancel your registration, please complete the Colloquium/Residency Cancellation Form at www.capella.edu/colloquia . If you are unable to attend because of a last-minute emergency or flight cancellation, please obtain documentation of the emergency and fax it to Customer Care at 612.977.5055 to be reviewed for a possible refund.

Schedule of cancellation refunds/fees:
More than 30 days before the retreat: Full refund
7–30 days: $150 fee
0–7 days: No refund