Life in the Bag: Our Program Expectations

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In this section, we will talk about: Organizational Expectations Academic Expectations Pacing Yourself Fitness and Health Other Thoughts Participation in the IFP will prompt some changes in your lifestyle and priorities.…

Why IFP?

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12 reasons why you should do the IFP 1. Knock out science requirements during a fun summer.The IFP fulfills Physical Sciences and Life Sciences as well as three hours of World Languages &…

Going West Since 1988!

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The idea for what is now the University of Georgia IFP began way back in the late 1980s as a way for introductory geology students to encounter “textbook examples” of…

The UGA IFP – It’s the Ultimate Field Trip!

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Study Geology, Anthropology, and Ecology in over 20 national parks and monuments! Knock out a semester of core curriculum requirements in a single summer while traveling, camping, and hiking across…

The UGA IFP – It’s a Hiking Trip!

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Lace up your boots and spread on the sunscreen! The IFP will elevate your pulse and take your breath away as you walk in the woods, descend desert canyons, summit volcanoes,…

The UGA IFP – It’s a Camping Trip!

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Do you love being outside? So do we! We have structured an entire eight-week semester in which you can live the outdoor lifestyle: go to class, study, eat, sleep, and…

UGA IFP – It’s a Road Trip!

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‘Are we there yet?’ Not…even…close. When it’s all said and done, the UGA IFP will take you over 12,000 miles across 21 states. Traveling coast-to-coast, crossing the 100th meridian and…

How do we travel from place to place?

We caravan in 12-passenger vans driven by UGA faculty/staff. A box truck carries our camping gear separately.

What is a typical day on the IFP?

Every day is different! Days typically run 6am-9pm (wake-up to bedtime) and could include class lectures/discussions and activities such as a hike, museum tour, drive to a new location, or field project.

Do we get time off?

Yes, our itinerary includes a day off in a new town (e.g. Flagstaff, San Francisco, Bozeman) about once per week.

Do we really camp the entire trip?

There are about 5 nights at the beginning of the trip we spend in dorm rooms at the UGA Marine Institute on Sapelo Island. After that we camp out every night! Campgrounds range from developed (with hot showers and laundry facilities) to primitive (no running water and pit toilets). Don't worry if you're not an experience camper - you will learn fast and become accustomed to the outdoor lifestyle!

Will we be backpacking?

We do not backpack or camp without access to our vehicles. At no time do we carry all the things we need to camp with us while hiking! This is a car camping trip only.

What will we be eating? Can you accommodate dietary restrictions?

IFP staff purchase groceries and plan the meals, while students help with kitchen chores. We will accommodate dietary requests and restrictions (allergies, vegetarian/vegan, etc). As for the meals, breakfasts are usually served cold, so we can get going quickly in the morning. You'll pack your own lunch (typically sandwiches, fruit, snacks) before breakfast each day, and you can eat it whenever you feel hungry. Dinner is prepared by IFP staff (with student helpers) in camp after the day's activities. Eating dinner together is a camp tradition!

What all do I need to bring with me?

Here’s a list of the clothing and gear we recommend you bring. We are always available to give advice on outdoor clothing and gear selections! Please don't hesitate to ask!

Can I bring a guitar?

Yes, we love having musical instruments in camp! But don't bring anything really valuable, and make sure you have a protective case to help with bangs and bumps during transport.

Can I bring nice electronics like a camera or laptop?

You will have lots of beautiful photo opportunities, so we definitely recommend a camera if you are into photography! Laptops are not necessary, but you are welcome to bring one. (The IFP provides an iPad Mini tablet for each student to use.) If you bring electronics, be prepared to protect them from water, dust, and being bumped around. And keep in mind our only security is a locked van.

Do I need to be in good shape?

Our hikes are planned to build up your acclimatization and endurance during the program. By the time you hike Mount St. Helens, you will be ready for it! Click here for a list of the hikes we do.

How often can we shower?

Usually about every other day - it depends on the location. The longest you’ll go without a shower is about 4 days, but the arid climate makes this a lot easier than it sounds! Don't worry, you'll get used to not showering every day.

Are there toilets???

There's always some kind of toilet in our campground, whether it's a flush toilet or pit toilet (not as bad as they sound!). The only time you'll have to wilderpee is on a long hike.