Although completion of this application does not guarantee a spot on the trip it is required of all potential trip participants. I understand that in order for my application to be complete I am submitting a $300 deposit. This deposit will be refunded if your application is not accepted. Application are due by 11:59 pm December 5th.

Applicants will be evaluated to select trip participants based on the following criteria (weighted roughly equally): 1) order in which the complete application was submitted; 2) thoroughness and thoughtfulness of responses; 3) Major/Minor and applicability to major area of study; 4) description of physical fitness and ability to participate in trip activities; 5) travel and environmental advocacy experience; and 6) Zoom interview.

First Name *

Last Name *

Email *

Phone *

What is your Major and/or Minor? *

What age will you be by the date we depart May 9, 2026? *

Please describe any food allergies or food restrictions? Include how your food needs are currently accommodated. *

Would you be willing to help drive during the trip for a $300 stipend? Describe your driving experience (both good and bad). *

Would you be willing to assist with food purchases during the trip for a $100 stipend? *

Why do you want to attend the Water in the West Program? What do you hope to learn? (500 words max.) *
Please enter at most 500 words. You currently have:

Please describe any experience you have with outdoor activities or environmental advocacy (500 word max.) *
Please enter at most 500 words. You currently have:

How will the Water in the West Program enhance your studies at GVSU? How will it complement your other classes? (500 word max.) *
Please enter at most 500 words. You currently have:

Students will be part of a book club and share cooking responsibilities during the trip. Describe any collaborative or working as part of a group experiences you have had (250 words). *
Please enter at most 250 words. You currently have:

Describe a challenging personal interaction you have had with a friend or colleague and how you resolved it; or How do you handle stress or conflict in group travel/fieldwork situations? (500 word max.) *
Please enter at most 500 words. You currently have:

If you could choose only one thing to see or visit on our trip route what would it be and why? (100 word max.) *
Please enter at most 100 words. You currently have:

What is your favorite type of exercise or sport you engage in (50 word max.) *
Please enter at most 50 words. You currently have:

The trip involves hiking, frequently at elevations above what we encounter in Michigan (> 5280 feet). Describe any experience you have with long and/or steep hikes 5 – 10 miles (250 word max)? *
Please enter at most 250 words. You currently have:

Please describe your physical fitness and your ability to participate in strenuous trip activities (hiking, kayaking, swimming, etc.) (500 word limit) *
Please enter at most 500 words. You currently have:

Is there anything else you would like to share about yourself that will assist us in selecting participants for the 2026 WIWP (500 word max)? *
Please enter at most 500 words. You currently have:

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