GOPOPS - Frequently Asked Questions
But won't I get dirty?
Let's hope so.
Who runs this?
The GOPOP program is run by Georgetown University Outdoor Education under the guidance of its director, Russ Watts. Outdoor Ed is a full-service guiding outfit operated out of Georgetown University. Most trips are student run and organized but kept under Russ' watchful eye. Once you are a Georgetown student, you can take the Georgetown Outdoor Adventure Trainer (GOAT) class and run your own trips with the help of our senior guides. Leading GOPOP trips is a special privilege made available only to our most talented and experienced guides.
Do I need outdoor experience?
Prior outdoor experience is not necessary to attend a Georgetown Outdoor Pre-Orientation Program (GOPOP) course. The best way to prepare yourself for your course is to get in shape and commit yourself to giving your best effort. Bring a sense of adventure, a desire to learn wilderness skills, a spirit of cooperation, and a willingness to exert yourself.
Is financial aid available?
Yes. We base financial aid on your overall package from the school. Please contact Russ Watts for further details.
What level of physical conditioning is necessary? Do I need to be an athlete to participate?
The courses can be very demanding, but they are not beyond the reach of anyone in average physical condition. We recommend beginning an exercise program today. Aerobic exercise, such as running, hiking or cycling, is ideal; walking for least 30 minutes a day is a good start.
Try building up your endurance gradually. Alternate your endurance training with light
weight-training for your arm, leg, back, shoulder, chest and abdominal muscles. Carrying a loaded backpack on your walks will help your shoulders get into shape. Be sure to do plenty of stretching. Most of all, get out and enjoy yourself! Even a few weeks of regular exercise will more than pay off once your course begins.
What do I need to bring?
Georgetown Outdoor Education will provide food, ropes, technical equipment, sleeping bags, pads, tents/tarps, rain gear, cooking gear, fuel, utensils, helmets, and first-aid equipment. You need only bring items listed on the personal clothing/ equipment list that you can find on the web. These include many items that you may already own (long underwear, fleece jacket, flashlight, etc.) and others that are easily obtained in outdoor retail stores or army/navy surplus outlets.
Is this program dangerous?
Instructors undergo regular training in the latest instructional, safety and rescue practices and in improving their assessment of backcountry conditions. They also have either Wilderness First Aid, Wilderness Advanced First Aid, Wilderness First Responder or Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) certification, training that prepares them for an appropriate field response to a wide variety of medical incidents.
The process of helping students meet challenges, take calculated risks, and develop confidence is integral to GOPOP, and managing that risk carefully and effectively is a hallmark of the excellence both Georgetown Outdoor Education and Outward Bound pursue. Student safety is our number one priority. And, be assured, risks in the programs are more perceived than real.
What is a solo?
A solo is a structured break from the intense social and physical aspects of the course, lasting anywhere from several hours to three days on longer courses. It is not a survival exercise; group members are given all they need to stay comfortable. It is a period for writing, thinking and quiet introspection. Many students find the solo to be the most rewarding element of their course.
Who are my Instructors?
Georgetown Outdoor Education instructors are women and men of extraordinary talents. Your instructors serve as teachers, guides, coaches, and friends. Georgetown instructors are not for-pay employees, but students selected through an in-depth application and screening process. All instructors have completed a semester-long course of expansive training and learning. Outdoor Education Instructors lead a variety of trips throughout the school year open to anyone affiliated with Georgetown University.
Will rock climbing be included in the course? If it is, do I have to do it?
Due to terrain conditions and weather, the decision to rock climb cannot be predicted. If it is included, the level of participation will be based on challenge by choice.
Will there be campfires?
Local land-use permits govern campfire use. If permits afford the possibility, the decision will be made at the instructorsâ discretion. Groups will adhere to Leave No Trace principles, which emphasize minimizing the impact of campfires.
Will I get to go swimming?
Your course may include the option for swimming, but since that option will be based on water levels and weather conditions, a hard and fast yes or no cannot be offered.
Where will I be sleeping?
For the majority, if not all, of backpacking course nights you will be sleeping under a tent or under a tarp. GO POP DC will have their dorm rooms with showers!
Will there be showers or bathrooms?
For Backpacking GO POP Trips: although the possibility for showers or a sponge bath exists, plan on not showering for the duration of your course. After a few days of exercise and no showers, your body odor will become your natural sweet perfume. Your senses will habituate and you will just get used to it. So don't bother packing shampoo, soap or deodorant into the wildernes. It's not going to work for one, and it attracts bugs for another.
Bathrooms will likely be available at the start of your course, but not beyond that. Please note that a portion of your course will be dedicated to addressing hygiene in the backcountry. We'll cover everything from how to rinse off after a long day of hiking, to using the bathroom in the woods. You will be instructed in Leave No Trace toiletry practices that emphasize a low-impact lifestyle. You'll love it!
But won't I get dirty?
Let's hope so.
What are the chances of being attacked by a wild animal?
Pretty small. With the exception of some bears, most wild animals are actually completely terrified of you. Seriously. There are a few basic precautions you can take to prevent run-ins with curious bears, but mostly they will leave you alone as long as you promise to do the same.
GO POP DC: Unless the Zoo lets a wild animal escape you will be safe.
What will we eat?
You will have to forage for nuts and berries. If you are really lucky, you might be able to snare a rabbit. Just kidding. We actually eat pretty well out in the woods. We've been told that our trail food is better than the cafeteria... We make things like pancakes, avocado burritos, macaroni and cheese with broccoli, and granola cereals.
GO POP DC: You will have a wide variety of food (from BBQ to Chinese to picnics in the park)
What if you didn't answer my question?
Call or email Russ or Dan. They're both pretty nice guys who would love to answer your questions.