<p>To those experienced Colby parents....</p>
<p>How much spending $ should a student budget for the academic year? (exclusive of books etc)</p>
<p>What has your experience been with COOT? My son is horrified at the notion
of these outdoor programs (loves his 3 showers a day-LOL)---which of the programs would be best for a non-outdoorsy freshman?</p>
<p>From a student:</p>
<p>I can get by on very little. It's nice to have a couple hundred dollars a semester for movies, the occasional night out with friends, ski-trips, take-out during a late night study session, on-campus concerts, and stuff like that. Everything essential, though, is really covered-- it really depends on lifestyle. I'm not the type to go shopping at Freeport or Boston (I've heard of people going shopping in Boston and buying a T-shirt -- A T-SHIRT!-- for $120... which is crazy to me). I also wasn't able to hit up Sugarloaf nearly as much as I wanted this winter, but so far I've gotten by on about $175 since September.</p>
<p>COOT is absolutely fantastic-- one of the best parts of Colby! The theater COOT is fairly good for non-outdoorsy people. I know the "Theater Coot" leaders this year, and they're great. The "Base-camp" COOT might also be up your son's alley.</p>
<p>cheers!</p>
<p>werd</p>
<p>Thanks--my guy is not much of a shopper either. I suspect he will spend most of his money on extra food/take out and movies, so his expenses will be on the low end based on your information..</p>
<p>I know he will end up enjoying COOT too--seems like a great way to meet other new students</p>
<p>COOT was a great experience for our daughter, who doesn't describe herself as an outdoor type either. She did decide to stretch herself and do a mid-level sporty COOT, and in spite of achy limbs did rave about it.
Colby does a superb job with COOT, which creates instant community and bonding.
Re: allowance, if he doesn't have a car on campus, what werd814 stated sounds reasonable.<br>
Our daughter did buy a skiing pass- about $230 - which is a great deal in most years: this past winter had little snow at the start so she about broke even, but she loved the easy access to Sugarloaf. I would say that she has become more outdoorsy this year, so you may find your son opening up to those experiences!</p>
<p>Thanks Momdd---I know he will get alot out of COOT--he is actually very athletic, so I think the physical rigor will not be the issue, but he will want a bed to sleep in! LOL</p>
<p>He is not going to bring a car his first year</p>