Exploring critical issues through in-depth dialogue

The Deep Dive is the second program in our Civic Gym. Following the success of the Unify Challenge (formerly known as the College Bowl), students and educators asked for more — a deeper dive into a single topic and additional practice disagreeing better.
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Thousands of students are paired into one-on-one conversations across differences. For about one hour, students discuss one hot-button in real depth. Whether assigned as a standalone experience or as a follow-up to the the Unify Challenge, the Deep Dive enables students to engage in meaningful dialogue and develop essential civic skills.

Held three times each year (Fall, Spring, and Summer), the Unify Challenge is rated highly by students and educators.

Summer 2025 Deep Dive

Tuesday, July 22

2 and 5 pm ET

Topic: Social Media & Mental Health

Days

Hours

minutes

Seconds

Instructors, register today!

This registration is for faculty/staff.
Are you a student? Click here.

Fall 2025 Deep Dive Dates

November 3, 6, 7, 11, and 12

Topics: Social Media & Mental Health, Free Speech & Hate Speech, Gun Ownership & Gun Violence, Voting & Representation

Educators, register today!I’d like to learn more first

8.9

the average rating
‍from student participants
(on a scale of 1 to 10)

98%

of students would recommend expanding the program to more students at their school

91%

of students said
the facts we presented
‍expanded their perspective

83%

of students now feel
‍more confident discussing complex issues with people who hold different views

Data from the Summer 2025 Deep Dive survey

Building civic preparedness

In the Deep Dive, students get the chance to work the civic muscle groups necessary for discussing an important issue in depth.

Professor Jeff Wilson

“All of them said, I was really nervous about who I was gonna get paired with. And then almost all of them had an amazing experience."

Professor Leah A. Murray, Ph.D.

"This is the best way I’ve been able to do what I think is so important, which is getting young people to talk across all the differences."

Professor Clark Friesen

"Even some of the students who really disagreed (before) doing it...their responses were positive (after)."

Students practice…

Active Listening and Perspective Sharing: Students have the chance to hear and summarize each other’s personal experiences and points of view.

Critical Thinking and Analysis: The pairs review, evaluate, and discuss researched facts on the issue.

Self Evaluation: Students closely examine their own perspectives in light of new information and their partner’s follow-up questions.

Collaborative Problem Solving: Students work together to brainstorm solutions to pressing problems in America.

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Ready to learn more about the Deep Dive?

Schedule a chat with our Partnerships team to see how you can bring the Deep Dive to your classroom or institution.

FAQs

Don't see an answer to your question? You may also send us an email at events@unifyamerica.org, or schedule a meeting with us.

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What are the dates for the Deep Dive?

In Summer 2025, participants will explore the topic of Social Media & Mental Health on Tuesday, July 22, with sessions at 2 PM and 5 PM ET.

I know it’s one topic per conversation, but how many topics are there?

There is currently one main topic addressing a critical issue in American society. Participants will have the opportunity to explore this topic in depth during the scheduled sessions.

Do students get to choose the topic?

Yes! Students can choose the topic that is of the most interest to them.

Can students choose any date that works for them?

For Summer 2025, students can join a session on Social Media & Mental Health on Tuesday, July 22, at either 2 PM or 5 PM ET.

Who will my students be paired up with?

Our matching algorithm will pair your student with someone different. After choosing the topic, students will answer a qualifying question about the topic. When they are matched, they’ll be matched with someone who answered the opposite of said question. Students typically find some common ground (and that’s the beauty of it!).

Is it possible to change the date or time?

Very possible! Since there’s just one date and topic this summer, students can choose either the 2 PM or 5 PM ET session on Tuesday, July 22—no worries about switching topics.

How much time should students allocate?

Students should plan for approximately one hour. Conversations may be shorter or longer depending on mutual interest.

What if a student encounters a rude or insensitive partner?

While it's rare, if a student finds themselves matched with someone combative or disrespectful, they can utilize the "Need Help" button on their screen. The Unify staff is available for live support throughout the event. The student can also exit the conversation and contact us at events@unifyamerica.org for assistance.

Will students' contact information be shared?

No, we prioritize privacy. While some may choose to share contact information, it's entirely optional.

What technology setup is required?

Students will need a tablet, desktop, or laptop computer with a functioning camera and microphone, as the experience involves a video call. The Deep Dive is not compatible with mobile phones.

Exploring critical issues through in-depth dialogue

Summer 2025 Deep Dive

Tuesday, July 22

2 and 5 pm ET

Exploring critical issues through in-depth dialogue

Summer 2025 Deep Dive

Tuesday, July 22

2 and 5 pm ET

Fall 2025 Deep Dive Dates

Building civic preparedness

Explore more program details

Want to dive into civic skill-building with your class, club, or university?

Ready to learn more about the Deep Dive?

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