2008 Orientation Adventure

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Who participates in Orientation Adventure (OA)?
All incoming students are eligible to take part in OA, including First-Year, Transfer, and New Resource students.

2. How much does it cost?
The cost is $295.00 and payment is due as part of your completed application. This price includes transportation, food, accommodation, permits, entrances and certain other miscellaneous items. You should bring some pocket money too.

3. I have never been backpacking or surfing before. Do I need prior experience to go on these trips?
No prior experience is required. Orientation Adventure trips are meant to be fun and engaging for participants of all skill levels. Students selecting backpacking must be in good physical condition and confident of their performance at high altitudes. Surf trip participants must be strong swimmers, but lessons and equipment will be provided.

4. IF I want to go when do I have to sign up by?
Your completed application must be received by 5 pm Friday, July 27th. As spaces are limited, submission of your application on or before the deadline does not guarantee you a spot on any trip. Do not purchase a plane ticket, equipment, etc without confirmation of participation. A completed application includes the application and medical information forms, liability/medical treatment releases and payment. The application and medical information forms are best submitted online through the website, while the signed liability and medical authorization form can be downloaded and returned with the payment. If preferred, all forms can be downloaded and returned with your payment.

5. How are trip assignments made?
Your trip assignment will be made on the basis of your expressed preference and trip availability. The sooner you sign up the better chance you have of being assigned a trip. Pitzer reserves the right to cancel any trip that does not meet minimum enrollment and place students on an alternate trip. You will be notified by email or phone on your trip assignment no later than July 11.

6. What should I bring on the trip?
This depends on which trip you will be participating. Once your trip assignment has been confirmed a trip-specific packing list will be available online or mailed to you upon request.

7. I don’t own a frame pack/sleeping bag, etc. Do you have gear available for loan?
Yes, but in limited quantities. Students are asked to supply their own equipment or make independent rental arrangements whenever possible. If you have your own gear, use it, as it will likely be a better fit for you, and possibly of superior quality. In addition, this will free up our limited stock of gear for other participants.

8. Can I move into my room when I arrive on campus?
Yes. You will be able to place your luggage in your residence hall room upon arrival. Friends and family may not stay in your room while you are on OA. We recommend that you ship all your bulk items to Pitzer, and they will be available in the mailroom when you have additional time, 8am-5pm Monday through Friday. Boxes should be addressed to New Student (your name) c/o Pitzer College, 1050 N Mills Av, Claremont, CA 91711.

9. Can OA participants be reached by phone during their trips?
While some Trip Leaders will be carrying cellular and/or satellite phones or radios, participants will generally be out of contact with their families for the duration of OA. In the event of an emergency the OA Coordinator, Trip Leader, or Student Affairs Dean will make arrangements for contact. Participants who bring cellular phones should note that certain trips will spend a bulk of their time outside of coverage areas. Those on outdoor trips should also be mindful of the disturbance mobile phones can cause both fellow students and others in the area. All cellular phones should be kept off for the duration of your trip.

10. I have a disability/allergy/condition/etc. that may limit my ability to participate in OA.
The OA Coordinator or Student Affairs staff member would be happy to discuss the matter with you and determine which trip would be the best match and what accommodations can be made. Please email specific questions to OA@pitzer.edu, or call (909) 607-7888.

11. Payment
OA can only accept checks or money orders for payment, as we are not equipped for credit or debit card transactions. Please make your check payable to “Pitzer College” and write OA on the memo line.

12. Financial Aid
Although the Orientation Adventure is a supplemental experience not included in the comprehensive fees, financial aid is available. Please indicate your interest in financial aid, and we will consult with the financial aid office to determine the appropriate level of aid available to you.

If you can’t find an answer please feel free to call Orientation Adventure at (909) 607-7888 or email us at oa@pitzer.edu

Thank you for choosing Pitzer College! We look forward to meeting you

Pitzer College Orientation Adventure
Office of Student Affairs
1050 N. Mills Avenue
Claremont, CA 91711
email us (oa@pitzer.edu)
(909) 607-7888
Fax: (909) 607-7136