Info Packet - Snowbird Wilderness Outfitters

O.L.D. School Semester
E N R O L L M E N T PA C K E T
WELCOME TO OLD SCHOOL
We are excited to share in this life changing season with you! This packet should help
you get ready for your course. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact
us anytime, don’t hesitate. Our staff wants to help in any way we can.
- OLD School Staff
WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT FROM US
Staff - You will be teamed up with guides who are knowledgeable in their areas of outdoor expertise
and have a lot of fun doing what they do. More than that, the guides that will be on your course have
been praying for you for months and preparing to lead and challenge you in your relationship with
Christ. You and our staff will most likely keep in contact for years to come!
Physical challenge - You may be expecting
an easy stroll through flat woods, or you may
be expecting Everest. It is always hard to
gauge the difficulty level of an area of
wilderness you’ve never visited, or activities
you’ve never participated in. If you are in good
shape, keep it up. If you have been enjoying
your couch at home for large portions of the
day, you need to get up and start some
conditioning for your course.
Semester sections involve carrying 50-60lbs
for large portions of the day, up hills and over
rocks. This physical activity begins on day
one, so you need to be in shape when you get
here. While physical strength does play a
factor in your fitness, you would do well to
focus on your cardiovascular endurance for
this course. It is recommended that you
exercise for at least 30 minutes a day, five
days a week. For help on a pre-semester
fitness plan, please give us a call.
You don’t have to be in peak athletic shape for
your course, but huffing and puffing always
makes your day less enjoyable.
We require every semester student to have a doctor complete an Old School medical
screening form. This form can be downloaded along with the semester application.
Food - So, are we going to be eating roots and berries, or what? Your diet in the backcountry will
showcase your creativity. We will provide the ingredients and help you to learn how to cook some
amazing dishes using camp stoves and cookware. You’ll use pasta, rice, flour, cheese, tortillas,
vegetables, and many other things to whip up your culinary masterpiece.
Believe it.
WHAT WE EXPECT FROM YOU
Prayer - You should be bathing your course in prayer already. We are praying that God will do a
huge work in your life and mind during this time, and that you’ll never be the same after this course.
Pray for those you’ll be sharing your course with, your guides, the things God wants to teach you, and
our safety together.
Positive interaction with others - One of the biggest blessings and challenges you are going to
face on your semester is the closeness of the community of students and staff on this semester. You
are going to be living in constant contact with other students. It is natural for close proximity to breed
some friction. Be prepared to exercise some patience and grace in interaction with your course
mates. You will be living and growing in community with the body of Christ. This will aid your growth
now, and hopefully help you to see the importance of REAL relationships that go below the surface
with other believers after your course. While on course, students are not allowed to develop
exclusive relationships with other students.
Positive impact in the local community- The staff here has worked hard to establish good rapport
with our community in Andrews. We do know, however, that it only takes one word or action to mar
our testimony and affect our impact here. You will have some unsupervised time in Andrews on your
days off. During this time, you will be representing OLD School, SWO, our staff, and Christ to the
locals here.
Fun attitude - Our favorite students are those who know how to have fun and are willing to try new
things and roll with the punches. Outdoor travel is unpredictable, and can at times be tough. At the
same time, you can have fun in almost any environment with the right attitude. You’ll love the time
you have here at OLD School... but often, how much fun you have is dependent on you.
absolutely no drugs, alcohol, or tobacco
DISCIPLINARY POLICY
At the Outdoor Leadership and Discipleship School, we seek to provide a safe environment without
distraction for learning.
Any discrimination based on race, gender, color, or national origin will not be tolerated.
Any sexual harassment or any sexual activity during OLD School courses will not be tolerated.
No alcohol, drug, or tobacco use is permitted.
Our goal is to see students more conformed to
the image of Christ during their OLD School
course. If it is believed that students are
behaving in a manner that would distract their
or others’ growth in this goal, it will be
addressed immediately. If, after being
addressed, the student is still continuing in
their disruptive/distracting behavior, disciplinary
actions will be considered. It is impossible to
outline every potential situation that could
surface on each course. OLD School staff is
committed to acting Biblically and full of grace
in each situation, led by the Holy Spirit for the
growth of each participant involved.
Disciplinary action for violations of these
policies will be the responsibility of the director,
as may be appropriate in accordance with
applicable procedures, and may result in
suspension within a course, or dismissal from
the semester.
Any student dismissed early from a course will
be responsible to pay the full course tuition.
LODGING AND ARRIVAL
Lodging and Facilities - During “in-town” portions of the course, students will stay at Snowbird
Wilderness Outfitters (SWO) in our staff cabins. These are heated cabins, with access to nearby
bathrooms/showers. All meals will be provided during course sections. You will be responsible for
your meals on days off. Expect 9 to 11 days off during your semester, plus several meals on halfdays off. Parking and access to camp/cook stoves is available.
Arriving and Departing - For driving directions to SWO, please visit our website at
www.swoutfitters.com. If you need to spend the night before your semester begins or after it ends,
give us a call and we can arrange housing for you.
CELL PHONE POLICY
The OLD School Semester is a focused time of discipleship and wilderness-based skill. That
being said, the wilderness is a key aspect of what we do. We strive to silence the noise of everyday
life to allow students to be focused on Christ, experience the wildness of nature, develop judgment,
and grow. To that end, we seek to limit the opportunities for distraction that personal cell phones
create. OLD School Students will not be permitted to take any personal communication devices such
as: cell phones, satellite phones, etc.. on the course.
In case of emergency, all instructors on the course will have cell phones and satellite
communication devices. If you or your parents have urgent need, you can be reached. For parents,
please call our office at 828.321.2210 while students are out on course.
Money raising ideas for semester tuition...
We realize that raising money for OLD School is no small task, especially when the course requires
so much time and leaves no room for a part-time job. So, we have come up with a few ideas to help
you brainstorm on how you can raise funds for the semester.
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Being supported (like a missionary) by your home church.
o Many believers want to give their money to people and causes they know. You have to let them
know that you have a need! A discipleship semester for personal growth is something that
believers are apt to get behind financially. In this case, you might choose to send out support
letters with info about the OLD School program.
o If you are supported by members of your home church, you should send out a newsletter while
you are here, journaling about your time on your course.
Work a job through the summer and save like crazy
Yard sale, ebay, craigs list.
o Sell things that you do not need anymore or that you shouldn’t need any more and put the
money toward OLD School. Also, these are great places to look for items on the packing list.
Contact us for more ideas about finances.
Semester Packing List
OLD School will provide the majority of your gear for the course. However, you will
need to bring your own clothing, some gear, and toiletries. Feel free to bring whatever
gear you have. If you are in doubt, bring it! We will inspect all of your clothing and gear
to give suggestions on what to leave behind for each section and what items you still
need to purchase. You may store any extra gear at our home base in Andrews.
A note on cotton - Cotton clothing is
perfect for "in-town" sections, days off,
and anytime you are in the front country.
However, cotton is not allowed in the
backcountry. Cotton has very poor
wicking properties, meaning that is dries
very slowly. Often we will be in
conditions without a hot sun to dry us off
and warm us up. We rely on our gear to
keep us warm and safe. If cotton
clothing gets wet in the backcountry, it
will stay wet for a long time. Be careful
not to use clothing that has a
cotton/polyester blend. Do not plan to
use any cotton gear such as
sweatshirts, socks, etc.. while in the
backcountry.
A note on boots - We recommend a
mid-weight, comfortable, hiking boot.
Do not plan on hiking in tennis
shoes, construction boots, sandals,
etc. Boots are probably the most
important piece of gear for your course
and a good fit is necessary. If your are
purchasing hiking boots for the first time,
visit your local backpacking store and
get someone to fit you for boots. Your
toes shouldn't jam in the end when
walking downhill and your heel should
lift slightly (1/8" or so) when walking.
When trying on boots, be sure to wear
the socks you will be hiking in.
One secret to dressing for outdoor travel
is layering. The more layers you bring,
the more options you have to maintain
the optimal temperature while exerting
yourself. It is hard to regulate body
temperature if you only have one big
jacket to take on and off. On the
semester you will encounter a wide
variety of temperatures. It is important
that you bring layers that are warm,
lightweight, dry quickly, and allow
freedom of movement.
Semester Packing List
The following is a list of things you will need to bring on your course. Items are not optional unless
indicated. Gear is a very important part of your course, so feel free to contact us for inexpensive options
and recommendations for gear.
Upper Body Layers
Cotton is not allowed
o
Base Layer: Long underwear top.
o Synthetic, Merino Wool, etc.
o Example: Patagonia Capilene, Icebreaker wool
o
Mid-Layer*: A lightweight jacket or pullover that can fit over your base layer.
o Synthetic, Fleece, Wool, etc.
o Example: OR Radiant Hoody, Patagonia R2, Mountain Hardwear Monkey Man
o
Insulated Vest (optional): Adds extra warmth if you get cold easily.
o Fleece or Synthetic fill (Primaloft, Thermal R, etc.)
o Example: Patagonia Nanopuff Vest, Cabelas Teewinot Vest
o
Soft Shell Jacket (optional): A lightweight, breathable, and weather resistant layer.
o Powerstretch, Gore Windstopper, Polyester, etc.
o Example: OR Ferrosi, Marmot Approach
o
Heavier Layer: A synthetic insulated jacket that fits over your other layers.
o Primaloft, Heavy Fleece. Avoid down as it loses the ability to keep you warm when wet.
o Example: Patagonia Nanopuff, Cabelas Teewinot, Patagonia R4
o
T-Shirts: Lightweight and quick drying for hiking and everyday use. Bring several.
o Synthetic, Poly-propylene, Merino Wool, etc.
o
Rain Jacket*: Waterproof, breathable, and durable. Must be lightweight and packable
o Nylon, DWR, Gore-Tex Paclite, Pertex, etc.
o Example: Marmot Precip, OR Helium, Patagonia Torrentshell
Lower Body Layers As a basic rule, lower body layers should mirror upper body layers
o
Base Layer: Long underwear bottom similar to top layer.
o Synthetic, Merino Wool, Polyester, etc.
o Example: Patagonia Capilene, Icebreaker wool
o
Mid Layer (optional): Some people enjoy the added warmth of another layer.
o Capilene 3, Performance Tights
* Available for rental or purchase
Semester Packing List
Lower Body Layers (cont.)
o
Insulating Pants* (fleece pants): A very important layer on cold nights.
o Similar to standard sweat pants but made from fleece or synthetic insulation
o Example: North Face Surgent, Mountain Hardwear Compressor
o
Rain Pants*: Similar to rain jacket, non-lined. Adds extra warmth and blocks wind.
o
Hiking Pants: Breathable, lightweight synthetic pants. Used for every section.
o Nylon, Nylon/Spandex blend
o Example: Columbia Silver Ridge, Prana Zion Convertible, OR Ferrosi
o
Shorts: Athletic nylon or similar. Comfortable for hiking and swimming.
o
Underwear: Non-cotton. Men may prefer nylon shorts with a liner. Bring several pair.
o Nylon, Lycra, Polyester, Merino Wool, etc.
o Ex Officio Give-N-Go, Patagonia Silk weight, Woolly Clothing Co
Footwear
Please see out note on boots
o
Boots: Mid-weight hiking boots with good ankle support. Must be broken in before you arrive!
o Full-grain waterproof leather, Gore-Tex, Nylon, Mesh, , etc.
o Example: Salomon Quest, Vasque Breeze, Merrell Moab, Asolo Power Matic, Lowa Tibet
o
Camp Shoes: Comfortable, lightweight shoes to wear around the campsite.
o No flip-flops allowed
o Example: Crocks, Tennis Shoes
o
Water Shoes: Used for whitewater rafting and sea kayaking. Must have a back strap!
o Tennis shoes, Sandals with back strap, Neoprene Booties, etc.
o Example: Chaco, Teva, Keen, Vibram Five Fingers
o
Climbing Shoes: If you have your own, feel free to bring them!
o
Caving Shoes: These shoes get dirty! Use something lightweight that will be comfortable when wet.
o Tennis shoes or hiking boots work fine.
o Example: Vibram Five Fingers
o
Socks: Crew length, mid-weight hiking socks. You can also use a liner sock inside a heavier sock.
o Wool, Synthetic, etc.
o Example: Smartwool, REI Light Hiker, Darn Tough
* Available for rental or purchase
Semester Packing List
Other Clothing
o
Shade Hat: For sea kayaking to prevent sunburns to your face and neck
o
Fleece/Wool Hat: An absolute must and will be used on every section. Must cover your ears.
o
Buff (optional): A nice piece worn around your neck that can be pulled over your mouth and nose.
o
Gloves: Nice to have on cold mornings when handling equipment and cooking breakfast.
o Fleece, Rag Wool, Powerstretch
o Example: Mountain Hardwear Powerstretch, Marmot Connect, Fox River Fingerless
o
Wetsuit (optional): For swift water rescue we will be in very cold water. You will be provided with
2mm "farmer john" wetsuits for the course. However, students who get cold easily may benefit
from bringing their own (thicker) wetsuit.
Gear
o
Sleeping Bag*: Must be lightweight and pack down small. Mummy style is necessary.
o Synthetic filled bag rated to 15-30 degrees or lower.
o Example: Mountain Hardwear Pinole, North Face Cat's Meow
o
Headlamp: An extremely important piece of equipment. Will be used every day on each section.
o Durable, Adjustable light strength, Red light setting is helpful for night reading
o Example: Coast HL-7, Black Diamond Spot, Petzl Tikka
o
Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, foot powder, chap stick, etc.
o Small, travel sized items
o
Sunscreen: Might not need it until sea kayaking, but good to have.
o
Notebook/Pens: These are a must for all your note taking during the semester.
o
Bible: Smaller is better, but be sure to bring both Old and New Testaments.
o
Knife: Small, lightweight, folding knife for chopping food and cutting rope
o
Dry Bag/Stuff Sack*: Used to weatherproof your gear when packed in your backpack
o Big trash bags, Nylon Stuff Sacks, Vinyl Coated Waterproof Bags, etc.
o Example: OR Dry Sacks, Exped Dry Bag, Sea-to-Summit Dry Bags, Seal Line Bags
o
Watch: Required for your WFR course. Having an alarm to wake you up in the woods is nice.
o Digital, Water Resistant
o
Bug Spray: Absolutely necessary for sea kayaking.
* Available for rental or purchase
Semester Packing List
Optional but suggested
o
Camera: Small, lightweight point and shoot. Durable enough to handle wear and tear on the trail.
o
Books: Bring a few good paperback books for pleasure reading.
o
Sunglasses: Nice to have during rock climbing and sea kayaking.
o
Bandanna: Multi-use item in the backcountry.
o
Camp chair: Very nice to have. You will use this every day.
o Example: crazy creek, helinox, grand trunk
o
Water bottles: Some people like to use their own instead of borrowing ours.
o Two 32oz water bottles or equivalent.
o Example: Nalgene, Platypus,Camelbak, Sigg
In-town stuff you'll need
o
Casual Clothes: Bring some warm casual clothes for wearing in-town and between sections.
o
Additional Money: For meals on days off, laundry, souvenirs, etc.
o
Personal Equipment: Have fun on your days off. Bring a mountain bike, kayak, whatever!
Gear Deposit Guidelines:
When you
arrive, you will be issued items for your course that
you will need: backpack, food bowl, sleeping pad,
etc. YOU WILL BE RESPONSIBLE TO KEEP TRACK OF ALL THE
GEAR ISSUED TO YOU. In addition, the entire OLD
School semester group will be issued gear: stoves,
tents, tarps. You will be held responsible to pay for
any damaged or lost gear issued to you out of and
above your $100 security deposit. The cost for any
group gear lost or damaged will be dispersed
among the entire group. If your gear is returned
back in good condition, your deposit will be
returned to you.
* Available for rental or purchase
PAYMENT POLICY
THE OUTDOOR LEADERSHIP AND DISCIPLESHIP SCHOOL
OLD School tuition is $6,900. Tuition includes course
meals, lodging, instruction, travel, and gear use.
Payments Due
1. A $600 enrollment deposit is due at time of accepted application to reserve enrollment in the course.
a. $500 Tuition deposit to secure enrollment (non-refundable)
b. $100 refundable gear deposit (in addition to course tuition)
c. Old School Tuition (6,900) minus tuition deposit (500) = final balance due
2. Final balance due in full on or before August 1 (Fall Semester) or January 1 (Spring Semester)
Make checks payable to Snowbird Outfitters. Put student name and OLDs Semester in the memo and remit to:
Snowbird Outfitters. ATTN: Old School. 75 Mae Johnson Way. Andrews, NC 28901
OLD School with College Credit
For students interested in receiving college credit, please contact Spencer Davis
([email protected]). We would be happy to discuss college credit/tuition options.
Cancellation and Refund Policy
Cancelations must be received in writing. Mail cancellation letter to same address listed above
Deposit Refunds:
1. Tuition Deposit - non-refundable/non-transferable
2. Gear Deposit - refundable per gear deposit guidelines listed in enrollment packet
Tuition Refunds: Cancellations received in writing on or before the following dates will receive the
corresponding refund.
Fall Semester 2015
August 1
August 10
Course Start Date
Spring Semester 2016
January 1
January 10
Course Start Date
Refund Amount
100% tuition paid less tuition deposit
50% tuition paid less tuition deposit
No refund
Required Forms
1. Medical Information form
2. Waiver of Liability and Medical Release form
3. Nantahala River Release
4. OLD School Agreement
Note: All forms are due two weeks before course start. Please ensure that all signature requirements are met
OLD SCHOOL AGREEMENT
I, _______________________ understand that by signing my name below I am affirming the
following:
______ I have read this enrollment packet in its entirety.
______ I agree to abide by the rules laid out by the Outdoor Leadership and Discipleship
School, and understand that failure to do so may result in dismissal from the course,
according to the disciplinary policies outlined in this packet.
______ I agree to the outlined payment policies in this packet, or have entered into a monthly
payment agreement with Snowbird Outfitters Inc. accounting and reservation offices.
______ I affirm that all personal information given on my application is correct to my knowledge.
Signed this______________day of ________________, in the year __________,
in __________________________________________, ___________________.
(city)
(state)
________________________________________________
(signature)
Please sign and mail back to:
OLD School
75 Mae Johnson Way
Andrews, NC. 28901
828-321.2210