Q.

How do I sign up for W&M Pathways?

A.

To sign up for W&M Pathways, you will need to submit an online registration form. Once your online registration has been received, you will be sent the various program paperwork and payment instructions.

Q.

Can all first year students take part in W&M Pathways?

A.

Registration for W&M Pathways is done on a first-come, first-served basis. Space is limited, so it's important to send your information in as early as possible.

Q.

What type of equipment will I need for W&M Pathways?

A.

This will depend on the trip you are going on. Obviously, you’ll need different equipment for backpacking than climbing. Once you have registered for a trip, you will be sent a detailed equipment list for your trip. You can also see sample equipment lists online.

Q.

I’ve never gone on an outdoor trip before. Can I still sign-up?

A.

Of course! W&M Pathways trips are open to all incoming students regardless of previous outdoor experience. However, our trips do require a certain level of physical fitness.  Backpacking participants will be carrying all of their supplies and equipment for three days several miles a day over uneven terrain. Likewise, climbing participants will be carrying climbing equipment over uneven terrain to access some climbing areas.

If you have any questions or concerns regarding the physical demands of our trips, please contact Theran at tefish@wm.edu.

Q.

Is equipment available to rent?

A.

Yes. The majority of specialized backpacking and climbing equipment is available for rent from the Outdoor Recreation Program at no additional charge. These items are marked on the equipment lists. Participants are responsible for providing all of their own clothing and personal items, however. Once you have registered for a trip you will be sent an equipment request form so that you can reserve any necessary gear.

Q.

When I arrive for check-in, can I move all of my things into my room?

A.

Yes and no. You may certainly bring everything you want to have at college with you, but the Office of Residence Life cannot guarantee that you will be able to put it directly into your room. Some residence halls will be ready for early check in and some will not.  We will not know which rooms will be ready until closer to the time of the trips. However, we can guarantee a secure location to store your belongings while you are on your trip. You can then move everything into your room upon your return.

Q.

Who will be leading my trip?

A.

Your guides on your adventures are Trip Leaders with the Outdoor Recreation Program (ORP) at William & Mary. All Trip Leaders are current students with a passion for the outdoors and who enjoy sharing that passion with others. Trip Leaders go through an extensive training process in several areas of wilderness travel and outdoor recreation and are required to have a current Wilderness First Aid certification. Aside from teaching about the outdoors, they are a great resource to learn about college life and the various opportunities available at W&M.  To learn more about Trip Leaders visit the ORP website at http://www.wm.edu/recsports/outdoorrec/orc.php.