You may be asking yourself "So what are Columbia students really like?" or "How will I meet people and make friends in college?" or "Where's all the wilderness in NYC?" or even "Why did you put an umlaut over that 'O'?" If these are the type of questions you find yourself thinking about, then COÖP is here for you.

The Columbia Outdoor Orientation Program (COÖP as we affectionately call it, pronounced "coh-op") is a pre-orientation component of the New Student Orientation Program (NSOP) for Columbia College and the Fu Foundation School of Engineering and Applied Science. The program is open to all incoming first year and transfer undergraduate students in these two schools at Columbia University, regardless of past camping, biking, hiking, or canoeing experience.

Our leaders are certified in First Aid, CPR, and Wilderness First Aid and have training in outdoor leadership skills to ensure a safe experience. The programs adhere to a leave no trace policy, limiting the trip's effect on the environment.

COÖP consists of three trip options: biking, hiking, canoeing. These three programs, described in more detail on the following pages, offer a unique environment for meeting other incoming students and forming close friendships, all before orientation begins!.

Apply for COÖP today!  The priority application deadline for financial aid is Monday, June 29 and the final application deadline is Monday, July 20.  Hurry before our remaining spots fill up!

About COÖP

Dates & Fees

FAQ for Students

FAQ for Parents

Safety, Safety, Safety

The COÖP Dance!