SCPKU Summer Seminar Program: Participation Commitment and Assumption of Risk, Release of Claims, Indemnification and Hold Harmless Agreement
This agreement applies to students who are participating in the SCPKU Summer Seminar Program.
All students signal acknowledgement and compliance to the terms covered in this SCPKU Summer Seminar Program Participation Commitment and Assumption of Risk, Release of Claims, Indemnification and Hold Harmless Agreement (“SCPKU Summer Seminar Student Agreement”) by checking the “I Read, Understand and Agree” box on the SCPKU Summer Seminar student application form. The parties to this agreement are the student (“Participant”), Participant’s parents or legal guardian if Participant is under 18 years of age (all referred to hereafter jointly and severally as “Participant”) and the Board of Trustees of the Leland Stanford Junior University, its officers, trustees, faculty, agents, representatives, volunteers, students and employees (collectively referred to hereafter as “Stanford”). Participant enters into this agreement in consideration for being permitted to voluntarily participate in the SCPKU Summer Seminar Program that involves travel and residency off the Stanford University campus (“Program”). Please read this SCPKU Summer Seminar Student Agreement carefully so that you fully understand the terms before signaling compliance in the program application. If you have any questions regarding the agreement you can email the SCPKU Summer Seminar Program Manager, Owen Raymond.
The SCPKU Summer Seminar Student Agreement contains important information about the obligations and responsibilities you assume when you are accepted to or waitlisted for the SCPKU Summer Seminar Program. For the Participant’s application to be complete, the Participant must check the appropriate box in the program application which signals acknowledgement that the Participant has read and understands this agreement and agrees to abide by all its terms and conditions.
The Participant understands that if his/her circumstances change and the Participant is no longer able to meet the obligations and responsibilities described in this the SCPKU Summer Seminar Student Agreement, he/she must notify the SCPKU Summer Seminar Program immediately and that, as a result, he/she may be required to withdraw from the program and pay a cancellation fee.
Commitment
I understand that I am expected to be fully committed to my SCPKU summer seminar. I will complete all seminar-related academic prerequisites, attend all scheduled SCPKU seminar orientation sessions (or scheduled make-up sessions), and submit all required registration materials by the deadline established by the SCPKU Summer Seminar Program. I will also attend all class sessions, class field trips, and other mandatory activities until the end of the program. If I cancel my participation after committing to attend, I understand that my student account will be charged a $300 cancellation fee.
I understand that participation in an SCPKU summer seminar precludes me from working a full- job during the program.
I understand I should check with faculty regarding any religious holiday observances that will occur during an SCPKU summer seminar in order to work through any conflicts with travel or other class activities. I understand that if I plan to observe religious holidays during an SCPKU summer seminar, I should communicate with faculty about my availability for classes, program events, and travel prior to confirming acceptance for participating in the program.
Standards
I understand and agree to abide by all Stanford policies, rules, and regulations, including but not limited to Stanford's Honor Code, Fundamental Standard, and Code of Conduct. I understand that any perceived violations of the above policies may give rise to a complaint being filed with the Judicial Affairs Office for possible investigation. I also understand and agree to abide by the policies of collaborating institutions (if any). I promise to act responsibly and will become informed of, and will abide by, all such laws, regulations, policies and standards. I agree that Stanford has the right to enforce all standards of conduct described above.
I understand that a passport with at least six months’ validity prior to entry into China is required to enroll in the SCPKU Summer Seminar Program; if I do not have a valid passport, I am responsible for obtaining one prior to the purchase of any airline ticket. I also understand that I am subject to the laws and immigration and entry regulations of the host country and agree to abide by all such laws and regulations. I am responsible for completing all the necessary steps to obtain a visa (if required) in a timely manner and am responsible for associated costs and for complying with the term of the visa. I understand that I am fully responsible for the visa process and Stanford University cannot guarantee that the appropriate visa will be issued to me. It is further understood that in the event of arrest Stanford University has no obligation to provide legal assistance and, based on local laws and practices, any assistance Stanford University may elect to provide may be limited. I understand that my acceptance into the program may be withdrawn or I may be dismissed from the program for reasons including, but not limited to, if 1) I violate University policy, 2) I present a substantial risk of harm to self or others or engage in actions endangering to others or myself, 3) my conduct is considered to be disruptive, detrimental or incompatible with the best interest and welfare of the program; 4). I am unable to participate meaningfully in education activities; and/or (5) I require a level of care from SCPKU that exceeds the resources and staffing that SCPKU can be expected to provide. I further agree, if dismissed from the program, to be responsible for all costs incurred in returning to the United States or my country of origin.
Eligibility
I understand that I must meet the following eligibility requirements in order to participate in the SCPKU Summer Seminar Program
- I am a Stanford student in good academic standing
- If I am a Senior or Co-Term, I will not have my undergraduate degree conferred before participating in the seminar
Program Housing
I will arrive in Beijing on or before the required arrival date for the summer seminar I am enrolled in. I understand that all Stanford students enrolled in SCPKU summer seminars are required to live in their assigned program residence. Exceptions to this policy must be pre-approved by the faculty instructor and the program’s director.
Keys and Damage Policy
I am responsible for the condition of the room assigned to me. I will be responsible for all damage, loss, and/or charges to the room. Any such damages will be charged to my University bill. Upon my arrival, I will be issued a room/entrance key. The re-keying of my room will be charged to my University bill should I fail to return this key to the correct location by the required time when I move out of my SCPKU summer seminar assigned housing.
Unauthorized Occupancy
If I occupy a room or residence without authorization before my scheduled move-in date, after my scheduled termination of occupancy date, or at any time outside my contract dates, or allow an unauthorized individual to stay in my room, I may be charged an unauthorized occupancy fee for each day or portion thereof until the space is completely vacated. This may be applied to both the unauthorized individual and the student who allowed the individual use of the room. Occupying a room or residence without authorization, or allowing an unauthorized individual to use my room, may also result in withdrawal of current and/or future housing privileges.
Insurance
I agree to obtain, at my own cost, and maintain in effect for the full duration of my SCPKU Summer Seminar Program (and, if asked, provide proof in documentation acceptable to Stanford University) Stanford Cardinal Care (student health insurance) or health insurance coverage equal to or greater than that offered by the Stanford Cardinal Care plan. Said coverage shall, at a minimum, include coverage for medical care and treatment outside the United States and coverage for both medical evacuation and repatriation of remains. I will be solely responsible for payment-in-full of all costs for medical care I may receive overseas and/or for medical evacuation and/or repatriation of remains and waive any right to hold Stanford University and its agents and employees responsible for any such costs.
Health, Safety and Medical Emergency Authorization
I attest that I am physically and mentally capable of participating in the Program and living or traveling to China and have no known health restrictions that might jeopardize my safety or health or the safety or health of others during their participation in the Program.
I understand and agree that if, during participation in the Program, Stanford learns that I am experiencing serious health problems, have suffered an injury, or an otherwise in a situation that raises significant health and safety concerns, Stanford may contact the person whose name I have provided as an “emergency contact.” I hereby give permission for Stanford or its representative to provide immediate and reasonable emergency care should it be required.
Program Costs
I understand that SCPKU will cover my international round-trip economy airfare to Beijing and airport transfers up to $1500, lodging and meals for the duration of the seminar, and class-organized travel expenses within China. I will be responsible for visa and passport application fees, pre-departure immunization costs, health insurance, and all other incidental expenses. If I cancel my participation after committing to attend, or do not fully abide by the terms of the "Student Participation Agreement" I sign when I enroll, I understand that my student account will be charged a $300 fee.
Arrival and Departure
Prior to departing my home country to participate in the SCPKU Summer Seminar Program in Beijing, I agree to register my travel plans at Stanford’s Office of International Affairs' (OIA) Travel Registry which tracks international travel for faculty, staff, post-doctoral researchers, and students so that the university may respond appropriately in the event of a crisis. If I am a U.S. citizen or national, I also agree to register my trip with the Smart Travel Enrollment Program (STEP), a free service offered by the U.S. Department of State for trip registrations with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. I am also advised to review Stanford's Medical, Personal, Travel and Security Assistance Services web site which covers, through its participating vendors, the university's 24/7 resources on call, online and on the ground to help with medical, security and logistical questions, concerns and situations that may arise when Stanford faculty, staff, postdoctoral scholars and students, as well as their spouses, domestic partners and dependents, are traveling abroad while on Stanford University business or research and/or participating in Stanford University programs.
I agree to arrive in Beijing no later than the designated arrival date specified by SCPKU in the summer seminar description unless I have advance, written permission from the Seminar Instructor to arrive at a later time. Such requests should be made no later than two weeks prior to the designated arrival date. I will depart Beijing no earlier than the last day of residence specified by SCPKU in the summer seminar description unless I have advance, written permission from the Seminar Instructor to depart at an earlier time. I understand that Stanford University, SCPKU, and the SCPKU staff assume no responsibility for knowing my whereabouts at any time.
Assumption of Risk
I expressly understand and agree that the Program presents risks to me and my property and that Stanford cannot guarantee my safety. I understand and agree that the Program activities may be dangerous and may involve risks to personal safety and physical risks which can range from (but are not limited to): minor injuries such as scratches, bruises, and sprains to catastrophic injuries, including paralysis and death. I understand and agree that the Program involves international travel and may involve unfamiliar or different terrain, customs, climate, food and drink, laws, social and sexual mores, sports practices, rules and regulations, communications, criminal and law enforcement activities, disability access, driving practices and road conditions, premises conditions and/or maintenance. Risks may also include: disease, inadequate health care, natural disasters, acts of God, war, civil unrest, terrorism, kidnapping and assault, physical violence, verbal abuse, sexual abuse, short and/or long term disability, loss of income and/or career and earning opportunities.
I am responsible for researching and evaluating the risks I may face and am responsible for my actions. Any activities that I may take part in, whether as a component of the Program or separate from it, will be considered to have been undertaken with my approval and understanding of any and all risks involved. This includes, but is not limited to, risks associated with the consumption of alcoholic beverages and/or drugs or other intoxicants, property loss, injury to person or property, or death arising out of traffic accidents, assault, and theft or other activities. I acknowledge that I have reviewed the advisories posted by The United States Department of State and by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control health advisory.
I acknowledge that it is my responsibility to take every precaution to safeguard my health and personal belongings from damage or theft. I acknowledge that Stanford recommends that I never travel alone, particularly at night.
It is Participant’s intention that this assumption of all risks shall be legally binding and a complete bar to Participant, Participant’s heirs, personal representatives, relatives and assigns. This assumption of risk applies to all activities arising out of, associated with or resulting directly or indirectly from Participant’s participation in the Program and residing and traveling outside of the United States, including but not limited to those risks listed above.
I further recognize, understand and agree that Stanford does not assume responsibility for any liability as regards damage or injury that may be caused by my negligence or willful acts committed prior to, during or after participation in the Program, or any liability, damage or injury caused by others, including other participants. I agree that Stanford shall not be subject to claims or suit to be made by or on behalf of me or my heirs, representatives or assigns as a consequence of my participation in the Program.
Release of Claims
In consideration of being accepted into and/or participating in the Program, I agree for myself and on behalf of my heirs, executors, administrators, employers, agents, representatives, insurers, and attorneys, to release and discharge Stanford of and from any and all claims which may arise from any cause whatsoever, including any negligent act or omission by Stanford or others. I further release and discharge Stanford from liability for any accident, illness, injury, loss or damage to personal property, or any other consequences arising or resulting directly or indirectly from my participation in the Program. I acknowledge and agree that Stanford assumes no responsibility for any liability, damage, or injury that may be caused by my negligent or intentional acts or omissions committed prior to, during, or after participation in the Program, or for any liability, damage, or injury caused by the intentional or negligent acts or omissions of others, including other participants.
I intend that both the assumption of risk and the release of claims be complete defenses to any and all actions, claims or demands that I, my heirs or legal representatives have or may have for injuries to person or property, including death, as a result of activities for which the I have assumed risks and/or released and/or waived claims.
Indemnification and Hold Harmless
I hereby agree to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless Stanford from any injury, loss or liability whatsoever including reasonable attorneys' fees and/or any other associated costs, from any action, claim, or demand that I, my heirs or legal representatives, have or may have for any and all personal injuries I may suffer or sustain, regardless of cause or fault as a result of, arising out of, associated with, or resulting directly or indirectly from my voluntary participation in or decision to participate in the Program, travel to and from the Program and any and all related activities. I will be responsible for all damages, losses, and/or charges for extra services in my room. I will further be responsible for all damages, losses, and/or charges to any that are caused or contributed to by me to common areas and grounds of my housing and SCPKU. I understand that Stanford University, the SCPKU Summer Seminar Program, the onsite overseas program staff, and seminar/program leaders assume no responsibility and do not provide insurance or other financial protection for me, my guests, or any personal property. This indemnification and hold harmless agreement is intended to be all-encompassing.
Activities Outside the Program
I acknowledge that should I choose to enter or remain in China before or after participation in the Program, Stanford will not be acting as a sponsor for me during this time unless the extended stay is directly related to a Stanford-sponsored program. Should I withdraw from the Program voluntarily or involuntarily, Stanford will cease to act as my sponsor thereafter. In the event of either of the foregoing, this agreement shall remain in full force and effect.
Media Permission
I grant permission to SCPKU to release only my name and email address to other Stanford students accepted or waitlisted to the same program(s) to which I am applying. If I do not want my name and email address released, I understand that I must contact the SCPKU Summer Seminar Program Manager, Owen Raymond, to withdraw my consent within a week of my acceptance.
Registration as a student and attendance at or participation in classes and other campus and University activities constitutes an agreement by the student to the University's use and distribution (both now and in the future) of the student's biographic information and image or voice in photographs, video or audio capture, or electronic reproductions of such classes and other campus and University activities.
If any student in a class where such photographing or recording is to take place does not wish to have his or her image or voice so used, the student should raise the matter in advance with the instructor.
I hereby grant Stanford University permission to use my name, biographic information, photographic and/or videographic image of myself and photographic and/or videographic images of my work product (research posters, final presentations, speaking engagements), if applicable, provided or captured as part of SCPKU programs, or by SCPKU, in any way, in all media now known or later invented for any educational or publicity purposes. I understand that Stanford intends to make information about or images of me available on the Internet for public access and information, and I hereby grant permission for such publication and use. I further grant permission to the photographer /videographer who captures any such image/footage described above to include the photograph or video in a portfolio (in any form in any media) of the photographer's/videographer's work.
I release Stanford and Stanford's assigns and licensees from any claims that may arise regarding such specified use of my image and/or biographic information, including any claims of defamation, invasion of privacy, rights of publicity or copyright. Stanford is permitted, although not obligated, to include my name as a credit in connection with the image. Further, I understand and agree that Stanford is not obligated to utilize any of the rights granted in this Agreement.
I understand that any academic projects produced while participating in the SCPKU Summer Seminar Program may be used for publicity purposes and/or as a resource for prospective students.
I understand that by submitting an application, Stanford accepting the application and my confirming a space if admitted or waitlisted I am expressly agreeing to the above terms. I further understand that my participation in the program is contingent upon acceptance of the above terms and that Stanford’s agreement to allow me to participate in the program is in reliance on my acceptance of the above terms.
Program Modification and Cancellation
Stanford reserves the right to cancel or modify the Program before or during its operation for any reason, including natural disasters, emergencies, low enrollment, or unavailability of facilities or personnel or compliance with the University travel policy. Students will not be charged a cancellation fee if Stanford cancels a seminar they were committed to attend.
Termination of Participation
I agree to not engage in inappropriate conduct. I understand that, in its sole discretion, Stanford or its representative may terminate my participation in the Program at any time, including during the Program. Reasons for termination may include, but are not limited to: inappropriate conduct or other behavior by me deemed detrimental to the best interests of the Program, or health or safety considerations. Such termination shall not diminish or otherwise alter my obligation to make any payment required for the Program, nor shall Stanford be required to make any refund for personal expenses incurred by me.
Severability
It is understood and agreed that, if any provision of this agreement or the application thereof is held invalid, the invalidity shall not affect other provisions or applications of this agreement which can be given effect without the invalid provisions or applications. To this end, the provisions of this agreement are declared severable.
Governing Law and Venue
This agreement shall be construed in accordance with, and governed by, the laws of the State of California. The venue for any action arising out of this Agreement shall be the County of Santa Clara, State of California. The parties agree to submit to jurisdiction in Santa Clara County, California.
Construction and Scope of Agreement
The language of all parts of this agreement shall in all cases be construed as a whole, according to its fair meaning, and not strictly for or against any party. This agreement is the only, sole, entire, and complete agreement of the parties relating in any way to the subject matter hereof. No statements, promises, or representations have been made by any party to any other, or relied upon, and no consideration has been offered or promised, other than as may be expressly provided herein. This Participation and Assumption of Risk, Release of Claims, Indemnification, and Hold Harmless Agreement supersedes any earlier written or oral understandings or agreements between the parties.
By checking the “I Read, Understand and Agree” box on the SCPKU Summer Seminar student application form, the Participant acknowledges that he/she has read this SCPKU Summer Seminar Program Participation Commitment and Assumption of Risk, Release of Claims, Indemnification and Hold Harmless Agreement (“SCPKU Summer Seminar Student Agreement”), understands its meaning and effect, and agrees to be bound by its terms.