Frequently Asked (COÖP) Questions:
And now, some answers to questions we are anticipating… This list only discusses questions relating to the COÖP program. Any non-COÖP questions regarding move-in, housing, etc. can be directed to the First Year/Sophomore Academic Center at 212-854-6378 http://www.studentaffairs.columbia.edu/fysaac/
· Who can sign up for COÖP?
COÖP is open to incoming first-years and transfer students enrolling in Columbia College (CC) or the School of Engineering and Applied Science (SEAS). At this time we do not take Barnard, General Studies (GS), or Jewish Theological Seminary (JTS) students.
· What equipment should I bring?
Enclosed is a packing list. Please read it carefully and follow our advice. We are sages when it comes to COÖP equipment and the advice is tried and true. Do not overpack, but definitely do not underpack. This list is also posted here: HOP Packing List, ROP Packing List, BOP Packing List.
· If I rented equipment, when and how do I get it?
We will be distributing rental equipment as we prepare for the trip on the night of the 26th. If you did not rent equipment but would like to do so, please e-mail us (coop@columbia.edu).
· Does the menu accommodate people with special dietary needs (vegan, vegetarian, kosher)?
Our menu is vegetarian-friendly. In fact, all of our meals are vegetarian, with an option of tuna or the popular meat-stick. Vegans can adjust to our menu too, which consists of lots of rice, beans, fruits and veggies. While most of our food is kosher, we do not keep a kosher kitchen on the trail. If you have concerns about your kosher diet, please email us (coop@columbia.edu).
· If I wear contact lenses, what should I do?
Most contact lens wearers are fine on our trip, although some prefer to wear glasses for the four days. Whatever you decide, please bring a backup pair of glasses or an extra pair of contact lenses. Make sure to bring a flashlight (for nighttime removal of lenses), and some people sing the praises of antibacterial hand gel as well.
· If I am enrolling in the Columbia insurance program how do I get insurance for the trip?
Here's the rundown on Columbia's insurance: It does not begin until September 1, but you can purchase a month of extra coverage. The application for this will go up on Aetna's website in early July.
· Should my parents/family/loved ones come on the first day of regular orientation?
Family Orientation takes place on Monday, August 31st. Your families should receive registration information separately. Families are welcome, if it is feasible, to stay or return for Family Orientation on August 31st. Family Orientation, however, is not mandatory and most COÖP families do not attend. Students are also welcome to arrive alone and have their parents meet them after the COÖP trip.
· Should I pack all my stuff for COÖP move-in or should I send packages separately?
As a COÖP student you are moved directly into your fall housing. If you are driving to campus, pack all your stuff. If you are flying, you can ship your belongings (that you don’t need for your COÖP trip) to your Lerner Hall mailbox. You should receive your mailing address/shipping information in other University mailings.
· Where does my family park? How do we get to Columbia?
COÖP-family caravans usually park along 114th street between Broadway and Amsterdam (beware: parking is limited), though any location around the Columbia campus is fine. Directions to campus can be found on the Columbia website at http://www.studentaffairs.columbia.edu/admissions/visit/directions.php. Columbia Security will be available to guide you to where you can legally park your car.
So there you have it. If you have any questions or concerns regarding the COÖP program, get in touch with us! Call us at 212-854-1398 or e-mail at coop@columbia.edu. Again, any non-COÖP questions regarding the transition into college life, move-in, housing, academics, etc. can be directed to the First Year/Sophomore Advising Center at 212/854-6378. Also be sure to check out the New Student Orientation Program (NSOP) webpage at http://www.columbia.edu/cu/orientation/. If your parents/family are interested in staying in a hotel room, Columbia keeps a listing of area hotels at http://supportservices.columbia.edu/hotel-rates.html.