Experience Whitman
During New Student Orientation, all incoming students will have an opportunity to spend time together—meeting new friends and engaging in an extended activity.
Experience Whitman is part of the orientation schedule on Friday, Aug. 29, and Saturday, Aug. 30, and will give students sustained time together centered around a shared theme or activity.
While most groups stay on or near campus, a few programs will leave campus overnight.
Below is the list of possible activities. You'll get a link later this summer to pick your top three choices.
Act & Argue: Persuade, Perform & Prevail
Step into the spotlight and experience a whirlwind of debate, drama and critical thinking! From fiery debates to theatrical improv, this program is all about bold expression and fearless persuasion. If you’re ready to sharpen your wit, boost your confidence and find your voice, join us for Act and Argue!
EcoMotion: Sustainability Rooted in Pášx̣apa
Sustainability isn’t just about the future—it’s about honoring the past. In this immersive orientation program, students will explore how environmental stewardship is deeply connected to the history and traditions of Pášx̣apa, the homeland of the Cayuse, Umatilla and Walla Walla tribes. In this extended activity, you’ll dive into hands-on sustainability initiatives, engage with Indigenous perspectives on land conservation, and foster a deeper appreciation for Whitman’s place within this landscape. Join us in weaving cultural awareness and environmental action into a powerful, place-based experience!
Let’s Get Creative With Human-Centered Design
Human-Centered Design meets hands-on impact. New students will solve real-world challenges through creativity, collaboration and design thinking. In this extended activity, you’ll spark innovation, participate in design workshops and shape the future of our campus!
The Games We Play: Connection Through Play
Get ready to bond, compete and collaborate in high-energy games designed to create instant friendships. In this extended activity, perfect for fall sport athletes and game enthusiasts, you’ll build school spirit, foster teamwork and make every moment unforgettable through the joy of play!
Ignite Your Impact: Change Starts Here
Socially minded students will connect with Walla Walla’s vibrant network of nonprofits and service opportunities. New students will be empowered to make a difference, engage with local organizations and become an active force for change!
Launching Into Leadership: Empower the Next Generation
Step into your leadership role and develop skills to help you navigate your college experience with confidence! Develop essential mentorship, teamwork and communication skills while charting your path to success in college.
Life, the Universe & Everything Else: Science in Motion
From stargazing to chemistry experiments, this STEM-powered program lets students explore the fascinating world of science hands-on. New students will engage in exciting experiments, climate solutions and discoveries that make learning an adventure!
Q-Camp: A Celebration of Identity & Community
Feel at home at Whitman! Experience a warm, welcoming space where queer students can connect, share their experiences and celebrate their identities through arts, movies and heartfelt discussions. This is more than an orientation—it’s a vibrant, supportive community!
WOOTs: Take College Outdoors!
Adventure awaits! New students will connect on unforgettable outdoor trips where they’ll camp under the stars, connect with peers and ease their transition to college life. If you love the outdoors, leadership and community-building, Whitman Outdoor Orientation Trips (WOOTs) are the perfect way to start your journey at Whitman!
Try rock climbing at Spring Mountain in the Blue Mountains. Camp out by the crag on Friday night, climb all day Saturday and return to campus Saturday evening. No rock climbing experience is required.
Come camp at the Umatilla Forks Campground in the Blue Mountains Friday night. On Saturday, you will hike to a nearby swimming hole and return to campus Saturday evening.
Come try out whitewater rafting on the Deschutes River! Camp by the river on Friday night, raft all day Saturday and return to campus late Saturday evening. Participants should bring dinner on Friday; breakfast and lunch will be provided on Saturday. No whitewater experience is required. Rafting and water equipment are included and available from the Outdoor Program.
Come try out flatwater kayak touring on the Palouse River! Camp out by the river at Lyon’s Ferry on Friday night, paddle all day Saturday and return to campus Saturday evening. No kayaking experience is required. Kayaking and water equipment are included and available from the Outdoor Program.
Come camp Friday night at around 7,000 feet near Anthony Lakes in the Elkhorn Mountains of Oregon. You will hike nearby on Saturday and return to campus Saturday evening. This trip will be camping near its sister trip, Where You Been Lakely?
Come camp Friday night at around 7,000 feet near Anthony Lakes in the Elkhorn Mountains of Oregon. You will hike nearby on Saturday and return to campus Saturday evening. This trip will be camping near its sister trip, Epic Elkhorn Escape.
Come camp on Friday night near beautiful Jubilee Lake in the Blue Mountains. On Saturday, you will try stand-up paddle boarding (SUP) in the morning and then hike around the lake in the afternoon. You will arrive back on campus on Saturday evening. No SUP experience is required. This trip will be camping near its sister trip, That’s Me, Jubilee.
Come camp on Friday night near beautiful Jubilee Lake in the Blue Mountains. On Saturday, you will hike around the lake in the morning and try stand-up paddle boarding (SUP) in the afternoon. You will arrive back on campus Saturday evening. No SUP experience is required. This trip will be camping near its sister trip, SUP Dawg.