Colby Outdoor Orientation Trips

COOT (Colby Outdoor Orientation Trips) is an outdoor-based student orientation program that is required of all first-year Colby students. COOT trips are designed to be fun and engaging while preparing students for their transition to living and learning on campus. COOT trips provide students with the opportunity to develop meaningful social connections while engaging in an appropriate level of challenge through a wide range of experiences throughout the beautiful State of Maine. Additionally, COOT leaders provide an ongoing mentoring presence on campus throughout the academic year.

The Iced COOT program--which takes place during mid-year orientation in January--offers students classic winter experiences such as dog sledding, cross-country skiing and snow shoeing along with exciting adventures such as ice climbing. Specifically tailored to meet the needs of First-Semester-Away students, Iced COOT provides a welcoming and fun-filled introduction to living and learning on campus.

COOT trips range from mild to strenuous in exertion level and provide students with an exciting array of activities and amenities from which to choose. From beginners to those experienced in the outdoors, it is our goal to provide everyone with a trip well-suited to their interests and ability level.

Since 1975, the COOT program has helped over 12,000 first year students navigate the woods and waters of Maine and the corridors and classrooms of Colby College. The program is managed by administrative staff with significant collaboration and assistance from student leaders. Our leaders undergo a competitive selection process and must successfully complete all training requirements to be considered an outdoor orientation leader.

Registration

In order to register for COOT, the following forms must be submitted. Our experience shows that early submission of all forms eases transition concerns for both students and parents:

• Health and Immunization Forms: Health and immunization forms must be faxed or mailed to the Colby Health Center as soon as you know you have been accepted. These forms can be found on the Colby Health Center website.
• Iced COOT Registration Form: Registration begins on Monday, November 28th and runs through Thursday, December 8th. Students will be asked to rank order their trip preferences. Students are placed on trips on a first-come, first-serve basis and with consideration for preference, relevant experience and preparedness as well as the availability of seats (to keep groups intimate in size and to minimize impact on natural resources all trips have a seat limit, some smaller than others).
• Parent Permission Form: For students under the age of 18, a parent or guardian must sign a hard copy and send via fax to the COOT program at (207) 859-4285.
  
• Treatment Authorization Form: For students under the age of 18, a parent or guardian must sign a hard copy and send via fax to the COOT program at (207) 859-4285.