Thanks for your interest in February Outdoor Orientation (FOO!).
FOO! 2008 will take place February 16th and 17th.
To download an application in PDF form, click here:
What is FOO!?
FOO! is Middlebury's Outdoor Orientation Trip for incoming February First-Year Students. February 16th-17th, 2008, small groups of 5-7 first years and 3 trained upper-class leaders will head in to the winter backcountry for 2 days of fun in the snow or on the ice, either backpacking by backcountry skis or snowshoes, or ice climbing.
Where does FOO! take place?
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.
Why do FOO!?
FOO! is not for everyone - it does take place outside in February after all. However for those who think FOO! sounds fun, we highly recommend it. Our goal is to provide an intimate small group experience in which new students may get to know one another, and their upperclass leaders. Our experience has been that tight-knit groups sharing a special bond often develope over the course of FOO!. FOO! is also a superb way to explore the wonderous winter landscapes that surround campus.
When does FOO! take place?
The trips take place during the first weekend of the spring semester. FOO! 2008 will take place February 16th and 17th.
How do I apply?
Incoming February first-years should receive information packets and registration forms in the mail in December. If you are not home, or have misplaced your application, a printable application may be downloaded via the link at the top of this page.
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 February 1st), 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 participatge. That being said, FOO! has a remarkable safety record, and we look forward to continuing it in 2006!
Who should I contact with more questions?
You may reach the 2008 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.