The Phoenix Outdoor Program (POP) is a camp-based program giving students a chance to explore the great outdoors, have experiences that are not possible on campus, while also forming small group bonds with new classmates and upper-class mentors. Whether you have never slept in a tent before or you're already comfortable navigating the outdoors, there is a place for you in POP.
Details
- Registration will open in early May 2026
- Registration will close on June 30, 2026
- A waitlist will be created for each pre-orientation program
- Cancellation deadline (to receive a full refund) is July 15, 2026.
- Spots are limited
- Students should register for the program they are most interested in. If the program is full they can join the waitlist or register for a different pre-orientation program.
Dates: September 15-21, 2026
Spaces Available: 160
Cost: $500. Housing, meals, transportation, and any applicable admissions fees are included in the cost of the program. Students are responsible for incidental/personal expenses and transportation to campus before the start of the program.
POP is a need-blind program—financial assistance is available for qualifying students and there is a place to request financial aid on the program application.
Timeline
General Information
All students participating in a Pre-Orientation program will stay in their room for the academic year. Students can bring all their belongings for the academic year with them on the 15th or their families can bring it on the 22nd. Families need to decide what works better for their student and family.
Dinner is the only meal provided to students on September 15th.
The campground we have reserved for POP has accessible lodging designed for campers with varying needs. Please feel free to reach out to College Programming and Orientation at pre-orientation@uchicago.edu if you have any concerns around accessibility!
POP Camping Trip
POP takes place at an established camp located about two hours south of the city. Students will have access to bathrooms, showers, and have the choice of sleeping in tents or cabins.
Transportation to and from camp is provided by the program.
The packing list will be sent to all participants in early August.
If you have any questions around what type of gear we're asking you to bring, just ask! You can contact the Pre-Orientation staff at pre-orientation@uchicago.edu.
FAQs
Participants will engage in small group discussions and participate in skill building sessions led by the POP Rangers. Most importantly, students will have a chance to bond with fellow first years and upper-class leaders in a small group setting, as well as learn more about UChicago and feel better prepared for Orientation and the year ahead.
Absolutely! No experience is needed to join the POP trip!
You may still register without your CNetID. However, you should ensure that you claim your CNet ID and submit your UChicago Card ID photo before you come to campus for POP. You will receive information on both of these processes over the summer.
Students with questions can email the Pre-Orientation staff at pre-orientation@uchicago.edu.