First Ascent
New Student Orientation Program
Designed to help incoming students find a place in the WCU family, FIRST- ASCENT offers unique challenges in the wild outdoors.
Want to explore the mountains around WCU?
Want a head start on making connections with people that have similar interests?
Want to do something completely different, 180 degrees from normal?
Want to create memories that will last a lifetime?
FIRST ASCENT IS FOR YOU!
Visit our information table at orientation!
Whitewater Rafting 
In conjunction with the summer orientation sessions, join other incoming students on one of the nation's most exciting whitewater destination, the NANTAHALA RIVER. Its 9 wet miles of class II-III fun. The experienced guide staff of Base Camp Cullowhee will take you on an afternoon raft trip that you will never forget.
No experience is necessary.
Sign up with the orientation folks when you register for your orientation session.
Dates:TBA for 2008, afternoons before on campus orientation sessions.
Cost: $25 Register with the folks at orientation.
5-Day Backpacking and Rock Climbing
 Small groups comprised of no more than 12 students will explore the rugged landscapes surrounding WCU as they travel, camp, climb, and laugh together. First Ascent is about building lasting friendships while exploring North Carolina 's forests, traveling through dramatic terrain, experiencing the exhilaration of reaching the top of a challenging rock climb, and finding that crystal-clear swimming hole just when you need it most. This 5-day trip is guided by Base Camp Cullowhee's professional staff, ready to help you get a head start on your transition into college life. Challenge, learn, discover, connect.
Why a 5-day backpacking/rockclimbing trip?
This program is designed to help you make an intentional transition from your previous life to the university world. Learn how to lead with the skills and the character that will serve you well at college and beyond.
What better place to find your mojo than in the wilderness? The wilderness is not only a place of beauty and challenge but also of clarity, well outside everyday distractions. The wilderness will provide you a sense of perspective for problem solving in your everyday environment. Once you have completed this program, you will have the outdoor skills to make your time here in Cullowhee an incredible adventure.
What experience do I need?
None, your instructors will teach and provide you with the skills to make "life in the woods" fun. No worries. Already have experience? Excellent, share you knowledge with others and learn a few new tricks from Base Camp's super-experienced backcountry gurus.
How hard will this trip be?
You should be in good physical shape for this First Ascent program. We will be traveling 2-5 miles a day with 45lb backpacks in mountainous terrain. Contact Base Camp if you have questions about the physical requirements of the program.
Rock Climbing:
One day of the trip will be spent rock climbing. Challenge yourself on this 70ft tall cliff with routes suitable for first timers and accomplished climbers. Base Camp staff are safety experts, so trust your rope and your belayer and climb with confidence. Learn how to challenge yourself in the face of adversity, just like at college.
Feel Free to contact Base Camp with any questions.
Dates: August 11-15, 2008
Cost: $150
* Minimum enrollment is 6 people per trip, Maximum of 12
To download an application click HERE
|
