Outdoor Connections. Students who have an interest in outdoor education and the environment should consider this community. The program uses an expeditionary model which allows students to participate in a series of specially planned off-campus wilderness trips (including trips to the Adirondacks) to develop connections to the land and develop personal community building skills. Emphasis is also placed on discovering and exploring links between coursework and daily life.

Students in this program will be given first priority for enrolling in one of five carefully selected classes: Introductory Oceanography (GEOL 135); Environmental Processes (Environmental Studies 200); Contemporary Issues and Values (Philosophy/Religion 101); Social Science Perspectives on Environmental Issues (Environmental Studies 201). These classes provide students with extra-mentorship from Environmental Studies faculty and an opportunity to meet other students who are interested in outdoor and natural pursuits.

The Co-Director of Outdoor Education, Molly Ames Baker, serves as the programming facilitator for this residential program. Students will be given early opportunities to join a variety of outdoor and environmental groups on campus. They will work closely with upper-class students who live in the Loj (an outdoor education special interest house).

Students participating in the Outdoor Connections program will live together in Curtis Hall, a co-educational, smoke-free residence hall.