<p>Hi! </p>
<p>I was wondering how Dartmouth introduces new students into Hanover community, with regards to on campus activities, as well as DOC trips. When students arrive on campus, do they have time to get to know their floor-mates before leaving for the trip, or do they just drop off their bags and go? Also, how long are the trips, and what choices are there? After trips, is there time to settle in before classes start? </p>
<p>Thanks!</p>
<p>Haha you’ll be getting all this information in Juneish, but as a quick recap trips will begin as soon as you get on campus and are staggered over about 2 weeks, your floormates wouldn’t be there anyway! Your very first friends at D will consist of your “tripees.” As far as trip choices–there are tons. Literally one for everyone (from psycho hiking, to whitewater, to cabin camping to nature painting).</p>
<p>As far as settling in-- D’s orientation is a full week long before classes start. You’ll have plenty of time! (And is some of the most chill time you’ll get at D- a week of experiencing Dartmouth with no classes). Also, if you’re on one of the early out-of-new-england trips you’ll get to experience pre-orientation, which can also be pretty fun.</p>
<p>So I think every dartmouth student has said at least once… “I so wish we could have another freshman orientation.” It was one of the best weeks of my life.</p>
<p>Orientation was fun, but it was far too long. I got back from my DOC trip and spent almost two weeks doing nothing. Sure I met new people, but towards the end I was ready for school to start. And DOC trips are overhyped, you’ll meet people that loved them and people that hated them. If you don’t feel comfortable going on a trip then don’t, I know people who didn’t go and they managed to make friends and enjoy Dartmouth. The brochure makes it seem like everyone goes, and you’ll be missing out a life changing experience you don’t. Not true.</p>
<p>Don’t know about gforever. Hates Dartmouth; hated her high school. Maybe you are finding what you are expecting to find??</p>
<p>Thanks everyone! </p>
<p>I’m asking because it seems like Dartmouth runs its orientation a lot differently than most schools, and the trips seem to be a big part of that. </p>
<p>@ Spunaugle: There are trips outside the New England? To Where? Also, what kinds of trips are there, and are they all the same length? I really enjoy all sorts of outdoor activities, but I’m not sure how I’d feel about doing the same activity for an entire week. Are there “combination” trips, where you get to do lots of different activities?</p>
<p>Here’s some information about DOC trips that may be helpful to you: [DOC</a> First-Year Trips: Dartmouth College’s Outdoor Orientation Program](<a href=“First Year Trips”>First Year Trips)
Also, there are no trips out of New England. I think what Spunaugle meant was that if you are from out of New England, you will be placed in a trip that leaves just before orientation starts. That way when you return to campus, you move in. Students from the Northeast go on earlier trips and then go home for a week or so before returning to Hanover for move-in day.</p>
<p>Most freshman go on DOC trips and most seem to have a great time. And many people are not so outdoorsy. They still have a blast. Also I have heard that orientation is relaxed and enjoyable. Dartmouth does a good job of welcoming new students and easing them into college life.</p>
<p>Mbsmom got it, I did mean trips for those who lived outside of new englands. All the trips are within several hours drive of Dartmouth in terms of location. And I agree trips is something you don’t want to miss. Even for those that are not super outdoorsy you’ll have a blast, make memories, and make some friends you might otherwise never have met.</p>