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Student Academic Affairs

UNIV 100

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The Freshman Center




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FAQ

How do I register for Project Peak?
It’s pretty easy to register for Project Peak!  All you need to do is fill out the registration form from either the brochure or from the website and send it back to us with payment for the trip via mail at The Freshman Center to George Mason University, MS 2C4, Fairfax, VA 22030 or via fax machine at 703-993-9008.  Unlike other University 100 courses, you do not have to register yourself for this section, but you do need to indicate your preference on the registration form and leave space in your schedule for the specific section you would like.

Why should I register for Project Peak?
First and foremost, Project Peak is fun!  We find that this is a great way to unwind and de-stress before you begin college.  Moreover, Project Peak is a fantastic way to meet and really get to know 17-19 other first year students, an upper-class Peer Advisor and your classroom instructor.  Not only will you start college with a great group of friends, but you will have had a great adventure!

Do I need to be really athletic to participate in Project Peak?
You do not need to be overly athletic, but you should feel comfortable walking outdoors, hiking, being in and around water, and sleeping in a tent.  However, you will not need to carry heavy packs long distances.

Do I need to be an experienced rock climber, kayaker, camper, etc. to participate in Project Peak?
No!  This trip is geared for a number of different experience levels.  Students who haven’t participated in the above activities will find that our experienced outfitters provide enough instruction to help them feel comfortable, those who might have had some more outdoor experience will still feel challenged.  Additionally, the campsites are all equipped with bathhouses (showers and toilets).

What are the benefits to moving into the residence hall early on Sunday, August 20th?
For those Project Peakers who may be from out of town early move-in is a great option. It ensures that parents/guardians only need to make the trip to Mason once, or that students traveling by themselves have a secure place to stash their gear while they’re away adventuring.  For both out-of-towners and even those right down the road, this option is a great way to avoid the crowds of regular first-year student move-in days.  While two hours isn’t enough time for most students to unpack everything, it’s a great way to get your things in, stake out a bed and ensure that you won’t be totally stressed out when you get back and will have some time to participate in New Student Days and the other great events geared just for you!

Do I need specialized camping equiment to participate in Project Peak?
Students will need to bring a sleeping bag and appropriate clothing.  A sleeping pad, insect repellent, and sunscreen are highly recommended. A complete list of equipment will be sent out prior to the trip and is also available on this website. Use of all major equipment (tents, cook stoves, pots, pans, safety equipment for rock-climbing, kayaking and rafting) is included in the registration fee. 

How many people are going to be on each trip?
Though numbers depend entirely on registration, no class will have more than twenty participants.  Also attending the trip will be the classroom instructor, the Peer Advisor (upper-class student co-instructing the class) and an experienced trip leader.  This small class-size and instructor/student ratio ensure that students have the opportunity to really develop relationships with each other and their classroom staff from which they will  continue to benefit into the semester.

Is Project Peak a living/learning section?
No.  You are not required to live on campus if you are a Project Peak student.  Both residential and commuter students participate.  Both types find that it is a great way to make some connections to other students and to the campus right away!

What is the difference between Project Peak and outdoor learning?
Both have an outdoor learning focus.  However Outdoor Learning is a living learning community, which requires you to live on campus.  (You need to have preferenced outdoor learning when you signed up for housing.)  Project Peak does not require you to live on campus.  The majority of outdoor experiences in Outdoor Learning take place during the semester; the majority of Project Peak takes place the week before classes start.  Both options include a University 100 class.

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Important Dates

August 19, 2006
▪Project Peak Move In Day

August 27, 2006
▪Fall classes begin

 

"In all things of nature there is something of the marvelous."
—Aristotle