Thanks for your interest in February Outdoor Orientation (FOO!).
FOO! 2009 will take place February 14th and 15th.
To download an application in PDF form, click here:
What is FOO!?
FOO! is Middlebury's Outdoor Orientation program for incoming February First-Year students. February 14th-15th, 2009, small groups of 5-7 first years and 3 trained upper-class leaders will head in to the winter backcountry on skis or snowshoes for 2 days and 1 night of fun and challenge. FOO! trips take place in the Green Mountains of Vermont and
the Adirondacks of New York. These areas, just a short drive from campus, offer endless opportunities for outdoor adventure. Our goal is to provide an intimate small group
experience in which new students get to know one another, and their upper-class leaders. This setting provides a unique opportunity to share questions, concerns and hopes
about transitioning to life at Middlebury with those best able to relate- other students! Not surprisingly, tight-knit groups sharing a special bond often develop over the course of the program. FOO! is also a superb way to explore the wondrous winter landscapes that surround campus.
Where does FOO! take place?
In the mountains and wilderness areas surrounding campus. Most FOO! trips visit either the Adirondacks or Green Mountains.
When does FOO! take place?
The trips take place during the first weekend of the spring semester. FOO! 2009 will take place February 14th and 15th.
How do I apply?
A printable application may be downloaded via the link at the top of this page. To apply, simply follow the instructions contained within.
Is there room for everyone on FOO!?
Unfortunately, no. A limited pool of fully qualified leaders and appropriate equipment, combined with wilderness land use regulations, prevent us from offering enough FOO! trips for everyone. Space is limited! Applications will be accepted until the deadline of January 11th at 5:00pm. Participants will then be selected by lottery in the interest of fairness to all. You will be informed of the status of your application by January 18th.
May I fax my application last minute?
Yes, you may, but bear in mind that only a fully completed applications will be placed in the lottery, so you'll need to send us your $85.00 program fee immediately. Our fax number is 802-443-3012. Please address the fax: Attn: FOO!
How much does FOO! cost?
There is $85 fee, which covers the costs associated with food, transportation, borrowed equipment, and leader training. We are committed to making the program as accessible as possible for all, and financial aid is available. Applicants receiving at least $1000 of direct-grant aid from the College are eligible for FOO! finacial aid. There is a place on the application to request financial aid.
If we are unable to place you on a trip, your full $85 fee will be refunded. If you are offered a trip but withdraw 14 days or more in advance (February 1st or earlier), a full refund will be granted. If you withdraw less than 14 days prior to the program (after January 31st), no refund will be granted unless we are able to fill your spot from our waitlist. Our ability to do so is by no means assured!.
Tell me more...
Winter outdoor adventure is potentially serious business. FOO! is a rewarding but challenging undertaking. You'll be venturing into remote mountain areas in the middle of winter. You may encounter very cold temperatures, snowy and icy trails, and other hazards. Our leaders are well trained and experienced winter outdoor enthusiasts. All hold Wilderness First Aid or higher certification. Safety is our highest priority. Still, outdoor adventure is never completely risk-free. Help may be a long time coming if something goes wrong. It's vital that you understand these realities and make an informed decision to participate. That being said, FOO! has a remarkable safety record, and we look forward to continuing it in 2009!
Who should I contact with more questions?
You may reach the 2009 FOO! Coordinators at:
foo@middlebury.edu
or the Middlebury Outdoor Programs office at:
MOP@middlebury.edu
Alternately, you may reach Middlebury College Outdoor Programs Director Derek Doucet at 802-443-3103.
Interested in learning more about Middlebury Outdoor Programs (MOP)?