Above and Beyond Orientation Value Experiences (ABOVE) is a multiday adventure program for incoming first-year students that takes place before the start of the fall semester. You’ll meet other students, faculty, and staff before school starts, boosting your comfort and confidence. Any incoming student may participate, but you must be able to swim.
Past activities include:
- Camping
- Canoeing or kayaking
- Caving
- Environmental activities
- High-adventure activities
- Night hike
- Outdoor skills
- Solo experience
The Trail Home
Home on the James
- Program dates: Aug. 20-22, 2023
- Fee: $150
- Number of participants: 10 students per trip
- Schedule: Click on the images above.
Want to join us?
General
No. Our program covers the fundamentals of backcountry ethics and travel, as well as the dynamics of working with a new group of people. Thus everyone, regardless of experience, stands to learn and grow through the activities.
Any incoming student may participate, but you must be able to swim. If you are unsure of your ability to complete a program, please call Outdoor Leadership Programs at 434.544.8224. We can help you figure it out.
The ABOVE program is designed to take you and the group away from the distractions of home life and place you in a different environment — a similar experience to leaving home to attend college. Some trips, by nature of the route or activity, will intersect with more urban areas. For the most part, however, you can expect to be out of contact and “out there” for the duration of your program.
Staying in Touch
Yes and no. Our program’s philosophy involves a complete immersion in nature with a small group of students. These factors foster an environment that promotes bonding. Furthermore, most of our camping and wilderness trail locations are outside the majority of network providers’ signal range. Also, there is no accommodation for recharging devices.
Once you leave campus for the trail, we can only pass on emergency messages. Emergency contact can be made through the Office of Student Engagement and Leadership Development (OSELD) at 434.544.8254.
Please be aware that there will be a lag time between when your parent/guardian leaves a message and when an ABOVE staff member receives it at camp or on the trail.
Scheduling Conflicts
If you would like to participate in the ABOVE program, you will need to attend the SOAR session on June 20.
Gear
The packing list details everything you need to bring. Please read it carefully.
You are only expected to bring personal gear, such as closed-toe sandals, clothing, a duffel bag, and a headlamp with spare batteries. Once you sign up you will receive detailed information about what you need to provide for yourself.
Only if you want to! Equipment, such as kayaks, packs, and tents, will be provided by Outdoor Leadership Programs, along with all group camping and cooking gear. Sleeping bags, day packs, and sleeping pads are available to borrow.
The cost to borrow/use equipment is free, unless the gear is damaged, lost, or inappropriately used. Treat the gear as your own and it is free. The cost of rental equipment is included in the program price. Damage and loss are charged at full retail value.
A quality pair of water shoes provides the foundation for all activities. Whether in camp or on a paddle, great support and lack of blisters and protection will help to make you and your entire group “happy campers.”
Health and Safety
You should plan to come to ABOVE healthy. If you’re ill, have recently had surgery (including removal of wisdom teeth), or have other medical concerns, you should have these issues completely resolved and healed prior to arrival.
Prescription and over-the-counter medications are allowed during ABOVE, assuming medications are documented on your health form.
Most contact lens wearers are fine on our program, although some prefer to wear glasses for the duration of the trip. Whatever you decide, please bring a backup pair of glasses or an extra pair of contact lenses. Glasses straps (like Croakies) should accompany every pair of glasses.
Our menu is vegetarian friendly. We also can accommodate vegans, since our menu features lots of rice, beans, pasta, oatmeal, fruits, and veggies. It’s also important to note that we purchase as much local produce as possible. If you have concerns about dietary restrictions, please email us at [email protected].
No alcohol, tobacco, or drugs are permitted at any time during the program.
ABOVE staff take safety precautions very seriously and are Wilderness First Aid certified. We train new leaders every fall to make sure they know how to keep students safe and comfortable on the trail and in the wilderness. We review actual risks, perceived risks, and managed risks before and throughout the program.
