What if I have never been in a canoe or carried a pack or ridden forty miles in a single day?

Prior outdoor experience in camping, hiking, canoeing, or cycling is not required. Inexperienced campers are highly encouraged to apply. To be sure, you may capsize your canoe in the Upper Iowa, feel the ache in your shoulders as you finish carrying your canoe from one lake to another, and long for a soft mattress, but we think you will find the activity worth it. As one participant wrote:

“This was the best possible way for me to start my college experience. I enjoyed meeting a small group of people right away. I developed a few very solid friendships. It was also nice getting to talk to an upperclassman. This was one of the best experiences of my life and is a great opportunity for incoming freshmen.”

How much does the trip cost?

The cost to participate in most trips is $200. Due to higher expenses, the cost to participate in the Boundary Waters trips is $250. This includes room, meals, transportation, and all fees associated with the program.

Who will be leading me on my trip?

Although Luther College faculty, staff, or alum will participate in each program, upper-class students will provide primary leadership. Each student leader has outdoor experience and basic first-aid training. As the immersion programs grow, it is our hope that future leaders will be chosen from those who have participated in the program as new students.

How do I apply to go on a trip?

You may begin applying on Monday, February 4.  Registration is limited to 75 participants and we will select persons on a first-come, first-serve basis. Registration will close when all spots are filled. On June 15 we will begin assigning students to immersion programs. You will receive an e-mail confirming your trip placement shortly after June 15. PLEASE NOTE: IF SOME OPPORTUNITIES HAVE FILLED, WE WILL CONTINUE TO TAKE APPLICATIONS FOR ALL OPPORTUNITIES AND USE A WAITING LIST TO DETERMINE THE FINAL PARTICIPANTS.

View the online application. There you will be able to indicate which trips interest you and submit your New Student Immersion Experience application. We want to make sure you have thought carefully about your decision to apply. In your application, you will be asked to answer a few short essay questions. Begin thinking about what motivates you to apply and what you hope to accomplish by participating in the program.