FAQ
What will I do on Quest?
All Quest participants will backpack through a section of the famous AT hiking trail while they learn valuable outdoor skills and develop bonds with their leaders and fellow incoming students. Those who participate in the 10-Day or the 4-Day Combination trips will also have the opportunity to rock climb.
Will I have to do everything?
By signing up for the program you are signing up to participate in a number of experiences that will no doubt be challenging. If a participant feels unsafe at any point, he or she is encouraged to talk with his or her student instructors to work through the challenge at hand, as he or she will be strongly encouraged to participate in all aspects of Quest.
Do I need previous outdoor experience?
The Quest program welcomes all incoming students. Although the program will teach camp craft, orienteering, climbing, hiking and more, the outdoors is used as a medium to meet other incoming incoming and upper-class students at Trinity.
What should I do to prepare for Quest?
It is very important that you start exercising regularly before Quest begins. Being in shape makes the experience more enjoyable. You should also make sure that you have all the equipment on the packing list, and ENSURE that your boots are broken in.
Are there scholarships available for Quest?
YES! Scholarships are available. Please check the box next to “Financial Aid” on the participant application to receive a Quest scholarship. The amount of Quest aid participants receive is typically proportional to their tuition aid package from Trinity. Backpacks, sleeping bags, and sleeping pads are available free of charge upon request.
How safe will I be on Quest?
Safety is a primary concern of the Quest program. All instructors have nationally recognized Wilderness First Aid certifications from SOLO. The climb and rappel sites are run by a highly qualified and experienced certified American Mountain Guide Association, Rock Guide, AMGA.
Where do I go to the bathroom in the woods?
Most of the campsites along the Appalachian trail have a ‘privy’ or ‘box’. Toilet paper will be provided.
Will there be showers?
No, there will be some opportunities to ‘dip’ along the Appalachian Trail. Access to showers is extremely limited, and there are no showers once you are on the trail.
What do we eat? Will I get enough nutrients/protein/etc.?
A variety of easy to cook foods are provided to satisfy the nutritional and caloric needs, as well as the varying appetites of participants. Breakfast and dinner usually consist of meals cooked over lightweight backpacking stoves, while lunches are easy to prepare on-trail. Students with food allergies or other eating restrictions commonly participate in Quest and are usually easily accommodated. Please be sure to note and discuss any food restrictions on your Quest health form.
Can I bring my own food on Quest?
No, all of your food will be provided. Extra food is extra weight, as well as a safety concern in regards to attracting animals.
Do I need to buy my own equipment for Quest?
Much of your personal equipment (clothes, boots, etc) you will need to buy, borrow, or provide. All Quest participants may borrow equipment including backpacks, sleeping bags and pads, and water bottles. Please view our equipment list.
What kind of wildlife is there on the AT?
One may encounter bears, raccoons, beavers, otters, chipmunks, squirrels, skunks, snakes and a variety of birds.
How do I enroll in Quest?
After you are admitted to Trinity College, complete the online starting out portal page for mandatory orientation program options. After selecting Quest as your option, the Quest office will send you a registration form to submit your preferred trip option.
How much does Quest cost?
Quest for 2023 is free! All program fees are covered for this summers program.
I have a medical condition. Will my Quest experience be affected?
We frequently have participants with conditions such as diabetes, asthma, and others. If you have concerns about this type of activity, please talk to your doctor. Quest provides first aid kits with medications to manage many common problems. If you are prone to certain health problems, you may bring your own medication. However, please list these on your medical forms.
When can I move into my dorm room?
All participants will already be moved into their dorms as Quest will take place after Orientation for the first time ever. Students will return from the trail with enough time to rest before classes begin on Tuesday, September 5.
Why should I go on Quest?
Participating in Quest is an amazing way to get a head start on your time at Trinity. Mirroring the college experience as a whole, Quest is an opportunity to forge bonds and meet students from a variety of backgrounds. It is an arena in which personal challenge is the motivating factor and a wealth of shared experiences and friendships are the result. For those looking to get the most out of their time at Trinity, Quest will help provide you with the experiences and confidence to do so.
Where will I sleep on Quest?
All groups are provided with a number of large tarps with which they will learn to artfully construct shelters to protect themselves from the rain and wind. When the skies are clear and wind calm, sleeping under the stars is almost always a suitable option!
If you have additional questions, please contact Kevin Johnson, [email protected]
Kurt Hahn Founder of Outward Bound“The aim of education is to impel people into value forming experiences to ensure the survival of these qualities: an enterprising quality, an undefeatable spirit, tenacity and pursuit, readiness for sensible self-denial and above all compassion.”
