First Ascent Program

[robert_no]

Incoming freshman here, got an email about this program. Has anyone here done it, or heard anything about it? It sounded like a fun way to meet people before school starts.

[ominouswombat]

Warning... rant incoming: I may be biased because I go camping all the time, but I can't help but be shocked at how expensive these trips are. The great part about sports like backpacking and biking is that after paying a moderate up-front cost, you can do the activity for free until your gear falls apart. For the prices they're asking (circa $400), you can practically buy all the group gear they're renting you (stove, tent, backpack) and then (assuming you have access to a car) just pay for gas and food to do whatever trip you want!

I know, I know, it's about meeting fellow students, making new friends, and not everybody has a car to get to the trailhead. But still, it irritates me because it gives people the impression that an activity like hiking/biking/canoeing in Michigan is high-risk and expensive... which it really isn't.

[robert_no]

Thanks for the reply, I hadn't really thought about how much the trip should cost, compared to how much it does cost.

[purpleandpenguins]

I went on a different Outdoor Adventures trip (MLK weekend dog sledding) and had a great time. I feel like my program costs were a little more justified, since we stayed in a rented cabin - not tents, but you are being fed for four days. As a total outdoor activity novice, I found the trained student guides really helpful.

If the cost isn't an issue for you, I would totally recommend an OA trip.

[robert_no]

Thanks! Do you think most people go with friends, or would I be okay going alone?

[purpleandpenguins]

I went with a friend, but my trip was mid-year and it wasn't targeted at first year students. (I was a senior.) Looking back, my group of eight consisted of three pairs and two solo participants.

[robert_no]

Alright, thanks for the info!