Stanford Pre-Orientation Trips (SPOT)
SPOT 2009 was a great success! We are super excited for SPOT 2010 and will post information on it next spring. If you are interested in becoming a SPOT leader for SPOT 2010, please click on the SPOT Leader Training link to learn more.
Program Details // General SPOT FAQ // SPOT Wilderness Trips FAQ // SPOT Public Lands FAQ // SPOT Community Service Trips FAQ // Housing Info // Fees and Financial Aid // Contact Us
Get Ready for SPOT 2009! Trips begin 9/9/09 and will finish on the morning of the 15th.
Stanford Pre-Orientation Trips (SPOT) began in 2003 as a wilderness trip for incoming transfer students. It has since expanded to include freshmen and now encompasses community service, wilderness, and public lands trips. Wilderness trip participants will spend five days backpacking in the California mountains, Public Lands participants will explore parks, learn about conservation and stewardship, and help with hands-on stewardship projects, and Community Service trip participants will explore local communities and take part in a combination of hands-on service and service learning activities. All SPOT trips give participants an opportunity to meet other new students and to learn more about Stanford and about themselves.
Trip dates for this year are September 9-15, 2009. We begin with check-in at 1-3pm on September 9, and end at 7:30am on the morning of the 15th, in time for move-in and the beginning of New Student Orientation.
PROGRAM DETAILS
SPOT Wilderness Trips
The SPOT wilderness trips will take you out into the beautiful California wilderness for a five-day backpacking trip. Many of our participants are first time backpackers, and our experienced leaders are excited to teach you everything you need to know to have a safe and enjoyable trip. Your group of 7-10 new students and 2-3 trip leaders will be entirely self-sufficient, carrying everything you need for the week in your backpacks. You will spend each day hiking about 4-7 miles with plenty of rest breaks. You will take in the amazing views as you cross mountain passes, feel refreshed as you swim in alpine lakes, and have lots of time to interact with the people in your group.
The focus of these trips is on sharing a wilderness experience, getting to know each other, and getting ready for the year ahead. In the evening, at the campsite for that night, you will play games, share stories, and discuss life at Stanford with your leaders. At the end of the trip, you’ll return to campus energized, with a fresh perspective and a new group of friends, ready to begin New Student Orientation.
SPOT Rock Climbing Trip
The rock climbing trip is now completely full, with a sizeable waitlist, please pick another trip.
SPOT is now excited to offer a rock climbing wilderness trip! Just like the backpacking trips, the rock climbing trip will consist of 7-10 new students and 2-3 leaders. You will spend 5 days exploring the beautiful landscapes and soaring granite and sandstone cliffs of Northern California, overcoming both physical and mental challenges, camping under the stars at night, and spending a lot of free time getting to know the other people in your group. This is a trip for beginners - our leaders will teach you all the skills you need in order to safely explore the vertical world of climbing. Climbing gear will be provided.
Public Lands Trip
Eastern Sierra Wildland Stewardship and Exploration Trip
The Eastern Sierra is a fantasyland for the outdoor enthusiast. Encompassing the area east of Yosemite National Park south to Mount Whitney and beyond there is a lifetime of exploration, learning and fun to be had there. Another name for the region is the Inyo, a Paiute Indian word meaning “home of the great spirit” and we’ll be joined on this trip by the local group Friends of the Inyo which works to help protect and preserve the public lands of the Eastern Sierra. Well known landmarks of the area include Mono Lake, the John Muir and Ansel Adams Wilderness, Mammoth Mountain (an active volcano) and countless peaks and streams. Hiking trails abound and we will spend some time day hiking a selection of local favorites. Much of the public land in the Eastern Sierra is administered by the Inyo National Forest and, working with Friends of the Inyo, one of our goals on the trip is to lend a hand on a variety of community service projects for the National Forest - after a busy summer tourist season they can surely use the help! This trip will be a great introduction to the area - we’ll spend equal time exploring and working on interesting stewardship projects such as trail and campsite maintenance.
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SPOT Community Service Trips
This year there will be 3 community service trips. Each trip will have approximately 8-12 participants and 2-3 trip leaders. You will be introduced to the local Bay Area communities through participation in service-learning projects at various sites around the region, and see first-hand the impact of community service. Each trip is different, so check out the individual descriptions!
“A Taste of the Tenderloin”
Historically, the Tenderloin district has been one of San Francisco’s rougher neighborhoods. Today, many enthusiastic and devoted community members are working to make this area’s reputation a thing of the past. This trip will focus on the dynamic revitalization process that is currently underway. Because we will be concentrating our energy on a specific neighborhood, group members will have the opportunity to gain a more complete understanding of the difficulties confronted by the Tenderloin, as well as an appreciation for the tremendous difference a single volunteer can make here. Highlights of this trip will include working with some amazing and resilient children, helping at a homeless center, and exploring the city through the leaders’ trademark scavenger hunt.
“Being Green Around the Bay”
Undoubtedly, one of the issues that define our society today is reducing the negative human impact on the environment. Regardless of your experience or knowledge on the topic, this SPOT program will be an uber opportunity for you to especially explore the environmental movement in the Bay Area. You will be working with different organizations and on various projects in order to sample the different approaches toward making the world a greener place. Whether it is through directly working with plants or animals hands-on, outreach and education, or learning about innovative and entrepreneurial technology, you will hopefully get a sense of some of the things going on around the beautiful and dynamic Bay Area–and have fun while doing so.
“SPOTlighting Refugees: Delving into Immigrant Issues in the Bay Area”
The Bay Area is home to large immigrant populations that contribute immensely to its diversity and its vibrant culture. Yet, this has not guaranteed immigrants, and more specifically refugees, a smooth transition into living in the U.S. During the trip, we will have the opportunity to interact one-on-one with members of refugee families through mentoring programs and workshops. We will visit and volunteer at non-governmental and international organizations throughout the Bay Area that provide educational, legal and support services to refugees. From a first-hand perspective, we will learn about the challenges they face, such as adapting to the school system, the work force, and various aspects of daily life. The aim of this trip is to promote awareness of the challenges faced by refugees and support efforts to ease their transition to life in America. This is because if these challenges are not dealt with their hardships could entrench them in a cycle of dependency. The week will finish off with a series of discussions and speaker events to encourage further SPOTlet bonding as well as reflection, and deeper understanding of refugee and immigrant issues. We look forward to working with you to create/contribute to activities and events that give refugees a sense of belonging!
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SPOT FAQ
Who is eligible to participate in SPOT?
SPOT is open to any freshman or transfer student who is a resident of the United States! When SPOT began in 2003, it was a very small program and we could only invite transfer students. As it has grown over the years, we have been able to invite larger and larger sections of the freshman class, and in 2008, we were finally able to open SPOT to the entire country, even you Californians. Unfortunately, international students will not be eligible for participation in SPOT, as they are part of a separate orientation program.
How do I sign up for SPOT?
Registration is by an online form which will be linked from this webpage. Once the registration form goes live, admittance will be on a first-come, first-serve basis. Because our trip leaders are students who volunteer their time for this program, we can only offer as many trips as we have leaders for, and so there are a limited number of participant spots available. To ensure that you get a spot, we encourage you to sign up in soon after the registration window opens. Registration will open at 11am, Pacific time, on June 4th.
Why should I participate in SPOT?
Coming to Stanford early to participate in SPOT might mean giving up a week of a summer job, hanging out with old friends, or time with your family. So why should you participate? SPOT will give you a chance to meet other new Stanford students in a relaxed environment before the school year starts. Spending five days hiking in the wilderness or performing community service will allow you to make new friends with a variety of different interests, and you’ll know those friends much better than if you had met them at an on-campus function. Because the other participants on your trip will also be new students, they’ll be able to relate to whatever concerns you may have about starting at Stanford. Often the friends you make during SPOT will stay with you for your whole time at Stanford, and perhaps for life. If you like being outside or have an interest in community service and want to jump start your Stanford career, SPOT is the perfect way to ease your transition. Finally, the most important reason to participate in SPOT: it’s fun!
Who will my trip leaders be?
Each SPOT trip will have 2-3 trip leaders, all of whom are current or former Stanford students. They are selected based on both their experience and their enthusiasm for working with new students. All trip leaders undergo extensive training to prepare them for the program. These leaders volunteer their time to this program because they are dedicated, wonderful people—we personally believe they are the very best at Stanford—and want to make YOUR freshman experience memorable. Your leaders are excited to welcome you to campus and make your adjustment easier. You can think of them as an ongoing support system - someone who you can pepper with questions about life on campus during the trip, or call up just to check in after the program is over.
Can I get into my dorm room before SPOT begins? What happens to all my stuff?
Because Stanford dorms are used for other purposes during the summer, you will not be able to get into your dorm room before New Student Orientation (NSO) begins. A very limited amount of storage space will be available on campus while you are on your trip, so please plan to have the majority of your stuff arrive on campus after SPOT is over, whether it is shipped or brought by car. You will be able to check into your dorm room on the morning of September 15 (the first day of NSO), the same time as all other new students. More details about arrival and storage will be available later on – check back for updates!
Will I participate in the on-campus New Student Orientation program if I attend SPOT?
Yes! SPOT will end in time for you to move into your dorm at the normal move-in time, 8:00am on September 15, so you will not miss any of the exciting events planned during our six day New Student Orientation program. During the on-campus NSO program, you will get to know your Academic Advisor, begin choosing your coursework, experience the multitude of offerings from our Community Centers on campus, and learn more about Stanford culture.
What about my parents?
Your parents are welcome to drop you off on campus for the start of your SPOT program on September 9, but there will not be activities for parents. Parents are, however, encouraged to join you on the first day of NSO which is Tuesday, September 15. There are many programs planned especially for them. We ask that you arrange to meet your parents on this day, if they will be joining you on campus for NSO.
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SPOT Wilderness Trips FAQ
What if I’ve never been camping before?
No previous outdoor experience is necessary to participate in SPOT. Beginners are welcome, and we anticipate that many of our participants will be backpacking for the first time. All of our trip leaders are experienced backpackers who can teach you everything you need to know to have a safe and enjoyable trip. All we ask is that you come with an open mind and a willingness to try new things.
What equipment do I need?
Each participant is responsible for providing his or her own clothing, including rain gear and a set of lightweight hiking boots. A complete packing list will be available here soon, including information on exactly what you’ll need and suggestions on where to purchase affordable gear. Stanford will provide all group equipment, including tents, stoves, maps, and cooking equipment. In order to keep the trip cost student-friendly amidst a record attendance year for SPOT, participants are highly encouraged to bring their own backpack, sleeping bag, and sleeping pad. Equipment that you bring should meet the following expectations:
•Backpacks: containing a padded waist belt, padded shoulder straps, and at least 4500 cubic inches of space.
•Sleeping bags: mummy style rated at 20 degrees or below. (0 degree bags or colder are recommended for those who easily get cold while asleep)
•Sleeping pads: these are required more for insulation from the cold earth than for comfort. •Any foam, Therm-a-Rest, or backpacking-style pad.
•SPOT will be able to provide backpacks, sleeping bags, and sleeping pads if you do not have access to them on your own. Please be sure to check the boxes on your application to indicate which items you will need to borrow.
What kind of physical shape do I need to be in?
SPOT trips are designed to be appropriate for first-time backpackers, and each group will take frequent rest breaks. We encourage everyone to participate in SPOT even if you’re not a seasoned backpacker; however please recognize that hiking 4-7 miles per day with a full pack (30-50 lbs.) can be physically challenging and strenuous and that our trips will take place at a higher altitude than many participants are accustomed to. Participating in some form of aerobic exercise during the summer will make for a more enjoyable trip.
Are the trips safe?
Safety is the first component of a successful trip and will be emphasized in all activities. Each group will carry a complete first aid kit and have at least one leader trained in Wilderness First Aid. Emergency plans will be in place to deal with any difficulties.
What will we eat on the trips?
Good stuff. We will provide all meals and snacks. Breakfast will typically be hot or cold cereal with lots of yummy toppings. Lunches will be eaten on the trail and might include bagels, pita bread, peanut butter and jelly, and cheese. Each group will cook a hot dinner each night such as pasta, burritos, or pita pizzas. Hiking for five days requires lots of energy, so we’ll make sure each group has plenty of food including lots of snacks. We can accommodate most dietary needs, so please let us know if you have special dietary concerns.
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SPOT Public Lands FAQ
What should I bring on the trip?
•Clothing for warm or cold, wet or dry.
•Footware appropriate for day hiking
•Camp and lounging shoes
•Daypack
•Two quarts capacity water containers
•Sunglasses
•Sun hat
•Warm hat
•Rain jacket and rain pants
•Sleeping bags: mummy style rated at 20 degrees or below. (0 degree bags or colder are recommended for those who easily get cold while asleep)
•Sleeping pads: these are required more for insulation from the cold earth than for comfort. •Any foam, Therm-a-Rest, or backpacking-style pad.
•SPOT will be able to provide, sleeping bags, and sleeping pads if you do not have access to them on your own. Please be sure to check the boxes on your application to indicate which items you will need to borrow.
What will the weather be like?
Elevations will range from 6,000′ to near 10,000′. The weather is generally fine with warm days and the first frosts of the fall during the night. Expect daytime highs in the 80’s and night time lows could be around 30ºF It is the tail end of the summer thunderstorm season - there is always the possibility of an afternoon thunderstorm.
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SPOT Community Service Trips FAQ
What should I bring with me on this trip?
Aside from your energy and enthusiasm, bring a sleeping bag, comforter or air mattress, pillow (depending on the trip, you might be staying in a church or community center, which may not have beds for you), comfortable clothing, a bathing suit, a little spending money, and some colder weather clothing (San Francisco can get pretty cold at night, even at the end of the summer). You should pack enough clothes, toiletries, and other personal items for the week, but pack light. You will get a detailed list of things to bring in August from the SPOT coordinators, depending on which trip you’re on.
What/where will we be eating?
Most meals will be made and shared by the group. Some meals may be at restaurants, depending on your daily schedule. A variety of food will be offered during the trips, and dietary preferences/restrictions will be accommodated as much as possible. For all trips, the cost for meals is included in your fee.
Will we be working the entire time?
While we won’t be busy all 24 hours of the day, its important for the group to stick together and do reflection activities outside of the visits. Plus we will have fun as a group with some activities of our own.
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EARLY HOUSING INFO
We have a very limited number of rooms on campus available for the night of September 8. If arriving on campus between 1 and 2pm on September 9 is impossible or very challenging for you, you can reserve this early lodging for an additional cost of $45. Unfortunately there is no financial assistance available for this one night of housing. The cost also does not include any meals (not to worry—we have dining options available on campus).
If you need early housing, you must sign up for it through this webpage – the link will open on June 4, in tandem with the SPOT registration form. Again, we have only a limited number of spaces available.
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SPOT FEES
The cost to participate in SPOT is $499. This covers all food, group equipment, transportation, and activity expenses for the duration of the program – from 1pm on the 9th to 7:30am on the 15th. It does NOT cover your transportation to Stanford campus prior to check-in (we cannot provide any transportation to or from airports).
The full payment of $499 is due when you register online. You may pay by credit card or check – however, checks must be received within 10 days of your registration to guarantee your spot.
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FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE
While we have kept the expense of the trip as low as possible, we do not want the cost to be a barrier to participation in the SPOT program. A very limited amount of partial scholarships are available for those students who qualify. Fill out the financial aid application starting June 4th instead of officially registering and we will verify it with the Financial Aid Office. The financial aid application is due by June 25th, 11am PST. You will be notified shortly afterwards regarding your eligibility for our limited partial scholarships including information on payment. Again, the financial aid application will be available here on June 4th, 11am PST. The application does not guarantee a scholarship or a place on SPOT. We hope to be able to service as many students as possible!
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CONTACT US
For more information, feel free to contact us at spot@stanford.edu, or call us at 650-736-SPOT (7768).
Need a waiver, click here. [PDF]
