New Adventures provides incoming Bobcats with memories and community

Becoming a first-year college student is certainly a new adventure. It can be challenging to leave home, make new friends and find a sense of community, all in a new environment. Ohio University’s New Adventures program helps ease the stress of the college transition process by providing incoming Bobcats with leadership skills, trips to amazing places and lasting friendships before they even set foot on campus.

New Adventures is OHIO’s adventure orientation program for first-year students offered through a partnership between Campus Recreation’s Outdoor Pursuits and the Office of Experiential Learning. The expeditions first launched in 1995 with one or two crews venturing to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area before the school year began. Thanks to the support of the Office of Experiential Learning, New Adventures evolved into today's Outdoor Orientation Program, featuring 16 Crews, 133 students and three unique locations.

Trips take place during the summer before students’ first semester of college and are designed to accommodate those who are just beginning to enjoy outdoor recreation activities. Participants travel in groups of nine, consisting of seven peers and two Ohio University trip leaders. The program is open to participants of all levels of experience, with trip team members present to ensure everyone has a fun and safe experience. Food, transportation, gear and instruction are included on all trips.

“The goal is for students to emerge from New Adventures empowered, with a profound sense of community,” said Assistant Director of Outdoor Recreation and Education Cody Lennon. “The friendships and confidence gained are invaluable when navigating the transition into university life.”

Incoming students may register for New Adventures at RecShop.ohio.edu and by submitting an application that requires biographical information and a 500-word essay. Those interested may attend one or more expeditions. All trips are subsidized 50% by funds provided by the Office of Experiential Learning. General Registration closes two weeks before the first day the trip meets.

In addition, 54 scholarships are available for applicants to apply to help cover the cost. Trips eligible for scholarship include the Appalachian Trail Trip 1 and 2 and the Boundary Waters Canoe Area. The Grayson Highlands trip is not eligible for scholarships.

This year, there are 133 spots available spread among three different locations and experiences:

Grayson Highlands Weekend Backpacking - Virginia
•    Activity: Backpacking
•    Dates: June 27 - July 1
•    Cost: $100

Appalachian Trail -  Blue Ridge Parkway, Virginia
•    Activity: Backpacking & Section Hiking
•    Trip 1 Dates: July 11 - July 16
•    Trip 2 Dates: July 25 - July 31
•    Cost: $250
•    Scholarship Cost: $100

Boundary Waters - Minnesota 
•    Activity: Expedition Canoeing
•    Dates: August 13 - August 24
•    Cost: $500
•    Scholarship Cost: $100

All trips are physically challenging, and all incoming students are asked to prepare by engaging in vigorous cardio exercise at least three times a week. Adventure activities are accessible to a wide range of abilities, so all incoming students are encouraged to consider participating in New Adventures. For those who have a disability and want to participate, please contact Outdoor Pursuits to discuss trip options.

For additional information, please visit the FAQs page or contact Outdoor Pursuits at OutdoorPursuits@ohio.edu.