This rock-climbing AESOP travels to Acadia National Park to climb, swim, and chill. For two nights, you will sleep at a campground near the park with ample fire rings for quality marshmallow roasting. You will spend two half-days being guided around the world-class rock climbing areas in the park by professional guides from Acadia Mountain Guides. After that, time to explore the surrounding area with your new classmates! At night you will cook at some good old-fashioned picnic tables, play games, and relax after a long day. This trip is for all levels of experience — both those experienced in rock climbing and those wanting to learn for the very first time!

• Evacuation Access Level: 2
• Frontcountry
• Activity Level: Intermediate
• Amenities: Running water, showers and flush toilets
• Sleeping Arrangements: Camping in tents

Meet the leaders!

Hey all! My name is Jimmy and I’m one of the leaders for Acadia climbing along with Miryam. I am a rising senior, and I study Math and History. I’m from Exeter New Hampshire, but I grew up in New York and I have two sisters and three dogs. Time spent cooking, reading, birding, or hanging out with the aforementioned dogs is usually my favorite, and I’m super excited to do some rock climbing with you all too. I loved my Aesop trip and I think these are a wonderful way to to be introduced to the Bates community, meet some fellow freshmen, and get to know some old-timers like Miryam and myself. So have a restful summer, and we can’t wait to meet you all soon!

Hi all! My name is Miryam (she/her) and I’m so excited to lead Acadia Climbing with Jimmy this fall! At Bates, I’m a rising senior and I’m an Earth and Climate Science and Studio Art double major. I grew up in Cape Elizabeth Maine and I love to spend time outside. In my free time you will find me surfing, rowing, hiking, cooking, and drawing. I can’t wait to meet you all this August and do some camping and rock climbing!

Get ready to explore one of the most popular places in Maine– Acadia National Park! During your three days here, your leaders will take you on many different adventures: hiking, swimming, hanging out at the beach, sightseeing, exploring downtown shops, and more! At night, you will sleep in tents at a local campground where you will make meals on a camp stove, smores over a fire, play games with your new classmates, and unlock some core memories!

• Evacuation Access Level: 2
• Frontcountry
• Activity Level: Intermediate
• Amenities: Running water, showers and flush toilets
• Sleeping Arrangements: Camping in tents

Meet the leaders!

Acadia Adventure 1 (Women’s Affinity)

Hey! My name is Kennedy Mathis (she/her) and I am so excited to be leading this Aesop with the bestest co-leader ever, ROSIE! Rosie is a rising sophomore and she’s from Burlington, Vermont! To get to know Rosie better, let’s take a minute to look at some of her pros and cons:

Pros: Zealous enthusiasm for the outdoors, massive biceps, blacksmith, will absolutely decimate some freeze-dried meals, loves poop jokes.

Cons: Will DESTROY you in spikeball, frisbee, pickleball and any other niche sport, medieval studies major, Nordic skis, faints often, loves poop jokes.

Hey! I’m Rosie (she/her) and I couldn’t be more pleased to take a trip to Acadia with my dear friend Kennedy and YOU! Kennedy is a rising sophomore and she’s from Brooklyn, New York. There are some great leaders out there but let’s review the pros and cons of one Ms. Kennedy Mathis:

Pros: Lover of the outdoors, takes fire photos and will flick you up, makes delicious coffee at the Bates coffee shop, will go for a run in ANY conditions, killer on aux (Hamilton).

Cons: Pees constantly, WAY too funny, passionate and trash at the New York Times games, can’t drive, takes photos… constantly.

Acadia Adventure 2

Coming in at a daunting 5’ 2’’ tall, Aliza is the fiercest AESOP leader of them all. Although she had her AESOP baptism in the waters of Lake Mooselookmeguntic, she could not be more excited for future Acadia Adventures t(w)oo. Aliza is a rising sophomore from Denver, Colorado, and a major in Chemistry. In her free time, she likes to dance, prance, and eat baby carrots. If I were to describe Aliza in one sentence, I would say she is one with nature and the nicest person you will ever meet. (Just don’t rely on her to save you from skinwalkers).

Fear not AESOPERs, despite Flynn’s ghostly pale complexion, the only time I have ever been scared of him is when he plays EDM music. Flynn is a fun-loving, adventure-seeking, risk-taker. He enjoys long walks on the beach, fireside dinners, and vibrant sunsets. Celiac by blood but a warrior at heart, Flynn will valiantly lead you through the toughest Acadia adventures (just make sure to keep him away from the gluten). An AESOP with Flynn promises spooky skin-walker expeditions, chill vibes, and 5-star culinary delights.

Acadia Adventure 3

Hi future AESOPers!!! My name is Darien Chiang and I am a rising sophomore, planning on completing the 3-2 engineering program here at Bates. I am from Quincy, Massachusetts, and yes before you ask it is just. outside. of. Boston. I am so excited to be leading Acadia Adventure and be exploring all that this beautiful national park has to offer. In my free time, you can catch me riding around on my onewheel, playing spikeball, or drinking orange juice at commons. I also love listening to music and recently I have been in a little Mt. Joy, Mo Lowda, Wild Rivers type of vibe. Finally, I am a coxswain on the men’s crew team and I also play on the club hockey team here at Bates. I am so stoked to meet you all and I can’t wait for this AESOP trip to start

Hey there, future baby bobcats! I’m Maggie Blanding, a rising sophomore. I am SO excited to introduce you guys to the wonders of Maine. Hailing from White Bear Lake, Minnesota (let’s not even talk about “bag”). I love the great outdoors. Whether I’m up at Sunday River (proud member of the alpine team!), lounging by the beach, or indulging in my slight coffee addiction while tackling Wordle puzzles, I’m always up for an adventure. Can’t wait to meet you all and dive into the beauty of Acadia!

If you love animals, this is the trip for you! Spend your three days with new classmates volunteering at the local Humane Society, learning about the animals of Maine at the Maine Wildlife Park, and hanging out at Wolfe’s Neck State Park with the cows. You will enjoy breakfast and dinner with your leaders and fellow AESOPers in the Commons Dining Hall, as well as packed lunches each day. During downtime, you can explore campus, play games, and get to know your new classmates!

• Evacuation Access Level: 1
• Frontcountry
• Activity Level: Moderate
• Sleeping Arrangements: In your Bates room assignment on campus

Meet the leaders!

Hola, hola! I am Adri, a junior, Biology major and Chemistry minor from Paraguay. I am a huge animal lover and hope you all are too! If you are not one yet, maybe this trip will change your mind. Regardless, super excited to get to know everyone :D

Hi y’all! My name is Ruslan and I go by he/him pronouns. I am a Politics and Dance double major with a minor in French. I love Bates and Adri, so I think this will work out great! So excited to meet you guys!

Centered at Bates-Morse Mountain Conservation Area, this art-based AESOP will provide a very relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere for you to explore different mediums of art. Explore some of Bates’ beautiful environments at Morse Mountain and Shortridge as you paint and draw some of the beautiful natural landscapes of Maine. Go for a swim or a short hike on Morse Mountain, and relax by the beach in the downtime. This trip is best for those who enjoy the arts and/or want a relaxed weekend to get to know their new classmates.

• Evacuation Access Level: 2
• Frontcountry
• Activity Level: Moderate
• Amenities: Running water, showers and flush toilets
• Sleeping Arrangements: In a cabin on bunks at Bates-Morse Mountain Conservation Area

Meet the leaders!

Introducing Maura, your one stop shop for art history, odd food combos, eclectic dorm room decor and so much more. Need someone to tell you what sweets go best with a bowl of pickles? Need someone who can tell you about art, history, and art history? Want to see a dorm room decorated with knicknacks, thingamabobs, as well as a (possibly) haunted doll named chi-chi? Then look no further because Maura has it all. When not making new and innovative combinations in commons, Maura is hard at work in the classroom as a dedicated history major. Forget if her last name has one or two r’s like I did while writing this(it has two)? Just look at the dean’s list. Maura utilizes this wealth of art history knowledge as a star employee of the Bates Museum of Art. In this role Maura helps to procure and create exhibits for our very own museum of Art located in the Olin Art center. If you’re not convinced already that Maura is the AESOP leader for you here’s a couple of quick facts: Drives a Subaru Volunteer at the Trinity Jubilee Center which fights hunger and homelessness Ran a half marathon after going out until 3am 2 year resident of Frye Street If you like chilling, making art, and having a good time then Art Chillin’ with Maura is the AESOP for you.

Hello everyone. I’d like to introduce you to Mr. Micah Sheats coming from Niwot, Colorado. This curly haired fellow is a rising senior majoring in economics and minor in digital and computational studies so if you have any money troubles or your computer isn’t working, he’s your guy. Micah has been an invaluable member of the baseball team since freshman year as a lefty pitcher. Have you heard what they say about lefty pitchers? They are like unicorns in baseball – rare, but when you find one, they’re magical on the mound. Micah can be found drinking a mysterious blue drink in commons or grinding in the library until ungodly hours of the night. In his spare time he likes to hangout with friends, listen to country music and be outside, usually surfing or playing golf. Do you know why surfers take up golf? To ride the fairway waves! I promise there won’t be this many puns on AESOP. Micah is super excited to lead the Art Chillin’ AESOP on the beautiful Morse mountain and can’t wait to meet you all.

ArtSOP will be a fantastic way to experience art in numerous different ways! Spend some time at some of Portland’s art museums, then spend the rest of your time drawing, painting, and/or coloring some of the beautiful spots at and around Bates. There will be easy access to bathrooms and running water the entire trip. Artists and people who have never touched a paintbrush are welcome to sign up for this trip! 

• Evacuation Access Level: 1
• Frontcountry
• Activity Level: Low
• Sleeping Arrangements: In your Bates room assignment on campus

Meet the leaders!

Hey future bobcats! My name is Ariya, and I’m a rising junior from Pittsburgh, PA. I am a Neuroscience major with a minor in Chinese. I really enjoy skiing, going on runs, and hanging out with friends. I can’t wait to meet you all, and I think we are going to have so much fun doing art and whatevaa!!!

Hi everybody! My name is Ruby, and I’m from Hartford, ME. I’m a rising junior majoring in psychology with a teaching ed. minor. I compete on the women’s golf team here at Bates. In my free time, I enjoy skiing, snowmobiling, and going to the beach. Ariya and I hope to make your AESOP experience the BEST it can be. We are so excited to meet you and welcome you to Bates!

Do you love to hike and camp and give back to your community? This trip might be for you. Bates students have historically maintained a beautiful 3.6-mile section of the Appalachian Trail up in Rangeley, Maine and this is your chance to see it! You will spend your days hiking and helping maintain our section of the AT by clearing trees from the trail, cutting back brush at the edge of the trail, and doing other projects as needed. A member of the Maine Appalachian Trail Conservancy will be there to operate machinery, help you with projects, and answer any questions about the trail. At night you will cook meals over a camp stove and sleep in a lean-to on the trail with your leaders and fellow AESOPers.

• Evacuation Access Level: 4
• Backcountry
• Activity Level: Highest
• Amenities: No running/potable water (all water will be treated), privy toilets
• Sleeping Arrangements: In a lean-to on trail exposed to the outside with sleeping bags & pads
• This trip will be include dehydrated meals!

Meet the leaders!

Hey everyone! My name is Sander Katz and I am very excited about our AESOP adventures. I am a senior physics major and a math minor. I am from Wilmington, Delaware, and I enjoy outdoor activities such as mountain biking, hiking, skiing, and running. Adam and I met when we climbed Katahdin together. We are very excited to meet all of you and look forward to introducing you to Bates and Maine.

Hi everyone, my name is Adam Oppenheimer and I’m super exited for this AESOP expedition! I’m a sophomore politics major from Washington, DC. I am an avid runner and love the outdoors in general. I love to hike and ski, and you’ll probably find me sailing this fall as well. Sander and I met while hiking Katahdin on an outing club trip, and we both love the Maine mountains. I’m looking forwards to meeting all of you and to help introduce you all to Bates and the great Maine outdoors!

Baxter State Park prides itself on ‘wilderness first, recreation second,” making it one of the most pristine wilderness areas you will experience. Home of Katahdin, which translates to “Greatest Mountain” in Penobscot. Baxter Peak, which is the highest mountain in the state of Maine at 5,269 feet, is part of Katahdin and the northern terminus of the Appalachian National Scenic Trail. Katahdin is held sacred by the Maliseet, Micmac, Passamaquoddy, and Penobscot nations and the geology within and around the monument is central to oral histories, traditions, and cultural practices for each tribal community. You will spend your AESOP trip backpacking through this beautiful and historical landscape. Participants can expect long days on the trail with numerous ascents and descents and an attempt to summit Katahdin.

• Evacuation Access Level: 4
• Backcountry
• Activity Level: Highest
• Amenities: No running/potable water (all water will be treated), privy toilets
• Sleeping Arrangements: In a lean-to on trail exposed to the outside with sleeping bags & pads
• This trip will include dehydrated meals!

Meet the leaders!

Hello team! I am stoked to be a part of your entry to Bates! I am from the great state of Minnesota, notably containing the Boundary Waters, where I prefer to be found with a canoe paddle and pancake mix in hand. I am an avid nordic and alpine skier, dabble in mountain biking and climbing, and proudly wear a children’s Home Depot apron on the frisbee field. At Bates I can be found tutoring math in Ladd, planning beach mac and cheese outing club trips, or centrifuging cow poop in Bonney. We have some epic backcountry cheffing and mileage trekking to look forward to in Baxter!

Hey Bobkittens, I am from Colorado where I enjoy skiing upwards and downwards, attending the rodeo, mountain biking, researching electric vehicles (and other things pertaining to my Environmental Studies Major), and planning epic backpacking adventures. I spend my time doing many of the same things at Bates with the addition of wielding the pickle jar at frisbee tournaments, spearheading stoke for Club Nordic Skiing with Claire, attempting to get rid of my shin splints, and exploring the first-floor Ladd library social scene. I am excited to share these places with you and spend some time together in Baxter. See you in August!

Maine is famous for its coastline, and this Beach Chillin’ trip will take you to some of the best beaches Maine has to offer! You will explore a total of three different beaches during your three-day trip. All of these spots have beautiful white sand, views, and salty water. Be prepared to soak up the sun’s rays and enjoy three days of playing beach games, swimming, and making new connections. 

• Evacuation Access Level: 1
• Frontcountry
• Activity Level: Moderate
• Sleeping Arrangements: In your Bates room assignment on campus

Meet the leaders!

Hey Bobcats!!!!!! My name is Summer (she/her), and I’m a rising senior from New York City. I absolutely loved my AESOP experience as a first year, and I am super excited about being your leader. I am a Rhetoric, Film, and Screen Studies major and an Education minor. Sydney and I have both previously been AESOP leaders and could not be more pumped to show you around Maine and help welcome you to Bates! We are going to have SO SO MUCH FUN. We can’t wait to meet you all!!!!

Hey team! First off, welcome welcome to Bates! We are so stoked to meet you and share some Bates love with you all. I’m Sydney (she/her), a rising senior from Connecticut. I’m an environmental studies major, philosophy minor, and dabbler in running, photography, and yoga. The beach is my happy place and I am unbelievably pumped to spend a few days exploring the beaaaaautiful Maine coast and beach chillin with you all. AESOP is a very special thing, that is oh-so near and dear to Summer and my hearts, and we cannot wait to hang with you guys and join you on the early days of your Bates journey! Get ready to dance and come with at least one song to share. Happy AESOPing!

Maine is famous for its coastline, and this Beach Chillin’ trip will take you to some of the best beaches Maine has to offer! You will explore a total of three different beaches during your three-day trip. All of these spots have beautiful white sand, views, and salty water. Be prepared to soak up the sun rays and enjoy three days of playing beach games, swimming, and making new connections. 

• Evacuation Access Level: 1
• Frontcountry
• Activity Level: Moderate
• Amenities: Running water, showers and flush toilets
• Sleeping Arrangements: Camping in tents

Meet the leaders!

Beach Chillin 2

Hey everyone, I am so excited to welcome you all to Bates! My name is Julia (she/her) and I’m from New York City. Growing up in NYC, I knew I wanted something smaller and slower but still with all four seasons. Fall in Maine is my absolute favorite!!! I’m a senior Politics and Psychology double major. On campus I am a Restorative Practices Advisor, avid member of our student run theater group, The Robinson players, and a student carpenter in the woodshop. I also love to play games, read, paint, thrift, and spend time with friends. I am thrilled to meet all of you and lead this beachy AESOP with Sophia :)

HI EVERYONE! My name is Sophia (she/her) and I’m from Skaneateles, NY. I am a senior Sociology major and Hispanic Studies minor here at the lovely Bates College. In my free time you can find me playing trumpet or messing around in the theater, which is where I met my co-leader Julia <3. I love spending time outside and meeting new friends so I am ECSTATIC to be able to lead an AESOP trip this year. I remember so clearly the nervous excitement I had coming into freshman year and I hope to help you all navigate that space, meet new people, get acclimated to Bates, and have some fun! Can’t wait to meet you all very soon :)

Beach Chillin 3

Hey Bobcats, welcome to Bates!! I’m Rohini! I’m super excited to be a part of your AESOP experience and to enjoy the beaches of Maine with you all. I’m from Branchburg, NJ and can be found driving around Jersey listening to music or working at my favorite local vintage store in Flemington when at home. I’m working towards an Economics major and Music minor. At Bates, you will find me singing a cappella with the Merimanders, writing or editing for Snaggletooth Magazine, playing my guitar, buying a chai from The Ronj, or hanging out with my lovely friends. My first-year AESOP trip was awesome (Portland Exploration!) and I met one of my best friends on the trip! In my time at Bates so far, I have really grown to love this community and the beautiful state of Maine, and I can’t wait for you all to have similar experiences. AESOP is a truly wonderful start to your life at Bates – I’m so glad I get to be there for you through it!

Hey y’all! My name is Alex and I am beyond excited to be a part of your AESOP adventure. I loved my AESOP group as it spurred so many new opportunities and relationships. A little about myself, I am from White Bear Township in Minnesota and you can often catch me anywhere near the water, I love swimming, surfing, and almost anything that includes water. At Bates I am on the rowing team as well as part of an a capella group called the Manic Optimists. I am hoping to study neuroscience with a minor in spanish. Here on campus I enjoy spending my time drinking coffee, hanging out with friends, or studying in The Ronj as well as exploring the Lewiston-Auburn area. I feel incredibly honored to be a part of your journey as we show you around your new home here in Maine through AESOP.

Beach Chillin 4

Hi everyone, welcome to Bates!!! I’m Noa and I’m from Hastings, New York (J.O.NYC one might say). I am so excited to lead Beach Chillin’ with my good friend and roommate Willow. I’m a rising sophomore, English and Econ double major, and a member of the women’s rowing team. I’m spending my summer lifeguarding at a day camp, and can’t wait to get back to school and meet you all! Here’s a little more about me: some of my favorite artists are Noah Kahan, Zach Bryan, and Lucy Dacus. I have two dogs, Wes and Fig, who are the joys are my life. In my spare time, you can find me spending time with friends, reading, and exploring the wonderful state of Maine! You can be sure that our trip will include lots of chilling in the sun, listening to good music, and being driven around in the 15 person van by yours truly (absolutely cannot wait)!

Hi everybody! My name is Willow and I’m from Shirley, Massachusetts (just outside the outside of Boston). I’m so excited to be leading Beach Chillin’ 4 with my dear friend and roommate, Noa! I’m a rising sophomore and planning to major in Sociology. Here’s a little bit more about me: I have two awesome cats named Bob (after Bob Dylan) and Joni (after Joni Mitchell). They are my pride and joy and the light of my life. If I am listening to music you can pretty much guarantee I’m listening to Gracie Abrams, Phoebe Bridgers, or of course Taylor Swift. I absolutely love the summer and swimming in the wonderful Atlantic Ocean! I’m so excited to meet all of the incoming first years.

Get ready for the backpacking adventure of a lifetime. The Bigelow Range offers hikers a great hiking experience, beautiful campsites, and world-class views from five different peaks! Participants can expect long days on the trail with numerous ascents and descents. On day one a bus will drop you, your leaders, and your fellow AESOPers at the Appalachian Trail Parking Area on Route 27 where you will hit the trail. Over three days you will cover 18 miles and roughly 5,780 feet of elevation gain. At night you will make meals on camp stoves and sleep in lean-tos or tents.

• Evacuation Access Level: 4
• Backcountry
• Activity Level: Highest
• Amenities: No potable water (all water will be treated), privy toilets
• Sleeping Arrangements: Under a tarp or in a lean-to exposed to the outside with sleeping bags and pads
• This trip will include dehydrated meals!

Meet the leaders!

Bigelows Backpacking 1

Hear ye hear ye all Bobcats of ‘28! Writing to you all from the porches of Frye St. as I bask in the spring sunshine! My name is Lili Missbrenner (she/her) and I am a rising junior from Rockland County, NY. I am an Environmental Studies major and Gender and Sexuality Studies minor who spends a whole lot of time in the great outdoors with a jar of pickles in hand. I have a dog named Michael and my favorite colors are camo and safety orange. I can often be found stockpiling sour cream streusel muffins in Commons, skiing in my favorite pair of jorts, or hanging out with my dear friend, and incredible co-leader, Owen Gammill as he plays his banjo. I am absolutely pumped to adventure with you all through the Bigelows this fall!

Howdy, fresh faces of Bates College! I am Owen. I am a rising junior hailing from a small island in the PNW. I am an Environmental Studies and Politics double major. I have a dog named Oscar, and my favorite colors are dirt brown and dirt green. I can be found stockpiling peanut butter in Commons, hiking in my favorite sweater, or hanging out with my dear friend, and incredible co-leader, Lili Missbrenner. Stoked for our trip, see y’all in the fall!

Bigelows Backpacking 2

Hannah hails from the fertile regions of the Bay Area, California. At first glance, she looks like she has touched grass from time to time with her Skida hats, Melanzana fleece, nalgenes with diverse stickers, and chalk marks on her patagonia baggies. But upon further examination, this is true. But oh man, there is so much more to talk about this groovy, passionate, and loving person.

Attached below is her resume: Shred Club President ES major (Eats Sharp-cheese) History minor Little Simz groupie Mountain bike coach Oyster studier who has never eaten one Bhutan baddie (abroad) Bagel enthusiast (shoutout Forage) Has an itchy nose Sailed the open sea (ponds of New England) Washed-up lacrosse player (loves women’s club lacrosse).

With these attributes in mind, I hope you will consider Hannah as your mentor into the world of Bates and Bigelow backpacking. You really don’t want to miss the opportunity to share some laughs, eat some cheese, share music taste, and explore the enchanted Maine wilderness with her.

Coming all the way from the city named after the largest natural lake west of the Mississippi, aka Salt Lake City, ladies and gentle persons: Garrett Glasgow. On a nice day at Bates, you can find Garrett bumping Khruangbin while playing a heated game of spikeball or perhaps stopped with his camera taking photos of the leaves as they change color. A superb dancer, fearless backcountry navigator, backward skiing baddie, not to mention loyal, empathetic, and witty, Garrett is your go-to guy. Here are some fast facts: Treasurer of Cheese Club (loves Mt. Tam cheese best) DOUBLE!! Major in Neuroscience and Rhetoric, Film, and Screen Studies Makes a mean cashew chicken Glacier National Park white (turquoise?) water raft guide Future leader of Bates’  critically acclaimed Film Production Club Tramped all over New Zealand (slang for hiking Down Under; also abroad) Can’t resist a massive iced dirty chai latte Habitually plays video games with his besties before bedtime (probably Zelda or Fortnight) Wes Anderson and Taika Waititi fanboy Has his driver’s license! It would be a darn shame to pass up this once-in-a-lifetime chance to backpack with Giggling Garrett in the wondrous Bigelow backcountry. It is sure to be full of new friendships, fantastic mountain views, and Awesome Epic Super Observable Plants!

Explore Camden Hills State Park and its sweeping views of Penobscot Bay. This base camping trip offers day hiking with close access to bathroom/shower facilities at the beginning and end of each day. You will hike up Mt. Battie and Megunticook, basking in the panoramic views of the rocky Maine coastline at the summits.​​ This trip will take you through long stretches of steep steps and scrambling rocks, so be prepared for some climbing fun! Covering around 4.4 miles on the first day and 5.8 miles on the second day, you will have plenty of time for group-bonding activities completewith card games and smores! The last day will be a relaxing walk along the Shoreline Trail where you might see some Maine wildlife as you enjoy a group picnic. 

• Evacuation Access Level: 2
• Frontcountry
• Activity Level: High
• Amenities: Running water, showers and flush toilets
• Sleeping Arrangements: Camping in tents

Meet the leaders!

Camden Basecamping 1

Hello! I’m Milo and I’m a rising sophomore. I’m from Brooklyn, New York. I’ve lived in NYC my whole life, but I have family in Maine. I’m an English major and I love listening to almost every kind of music and also making it. My other hobbies include biking, frisbee, film photography, and playing a lot of pickleball! At Bates I’m a DJ at the radio station (with Clem!!), editor for the literary magazine, and I play ultimate frisbee for OWHIP! I’m super excited for some camping, hiking and meeting you all. See you in August!

Hi!! My name’s Clem and I’m a rising sophomore! I’m from Brooklyn, New York, and I’m thinking of majoring in Environmental Studies or English. I love to play the guitar and drums, kick the ball around with friends, and go on bike rides (with Milo!!). I appreciate a solid everything bagel and I would say my two favorite tv shows are Psych and Phineas and Ferb! I love to hike and swim so I’m really excited to explore Camden with all of you! I can’t wait to meet you all!

Camden Basecamping 2

My name is Eleanor Lynch (she/her) and I’m a rising senior from Westchester, New York (though I now live in Massachusetts). As a neuroscience major and hispanic studies minor, I’ll gladly talk about anything brain or Spanish language related. In my free time I like to run while listening to reggaeton, climb the leaderboard in Duolingo, and table hop in Commons. I loved my AESOP largely because of my leaders and so I’m super excited to lead the wonderful trip we have lined up for you! Get excited.

My name is Eric Treyz. I prefer he/him pronouns and am from Amherst, Massachusetts. I am a captain on the Men’s Ultimate Frisbee team (Orange Whip) and also enjoy getting lost, stargazing, and watching Survivor. Someone should challenge me to a fried rice or ratatouille cook off or ask me about the fluffy animal that runs around my house named Bisky. I am very excited to get the opportunity to explore Camden’s mountains and ocean with you all!

Camden Basecamping 3

What’s up everybody!! I’m Grace Martin, a rising sophomore who is psyched to meet so many future Batesies. A little about me, I’m from Lyndonville, Vermont, the land of maple trees, and spend my summers in Cordova, Alaska, with folk music, salmon, and mountains. In my free time you can find me playing mandolin, skiing, writing songs, singing with the Bates Crosstones, or tossing a frisbee with my friends. I am beyond thrilled to explore Camden Hills with my fabulous co-leader Iris and start off the school year strong by getting to know new faces!

Hey! My name is Iris Petrin and I am so excited to co-lead Camden Basecamping 3 with the incredible Grace Martin! I am a rising sophomore from Leeds, Maine and my pronouns are she/her. I spend most of my free time outdoors, with a particular love for backpacking, nordic skiing, and canoeing. So excited to meet you all!

Explore three of Maine’s hotspot cities! Freeport, Brunswick, and Lewiston/Auburn are some of Southern and Central Maine’s best spots for food, shops, walking, coffee, you name it! You will explore each of these cities with your leaders and fellow AESOPers. Freeport and Brunswick are both huddled up next to the great rocky coast of Maine, while Lewiston is inland and relies on lakes to cool off. Each of these places has so much to offer, and being in Maine, there is lots of nature and city to go around. Knowing these cities a little better gives you a better picture of what’s around Bates campus and what you can do for fun during your time here! 

• Evacuation Access Level: 1
• Frontcountry
• Activity Level: Moderate
• Sleeping Arrangements: Camping in tents

Meet the leaders!

CitySOP 1

Hi everyone! My name is Ava Varrell (she/her) and I am so excited to meet everyone on AESOP this fall! I am a rising sophomore from Chestnut Hill, MA, (get ready to hear the term JOB) and hoping to double major in both Biology and Psychology. I love to play tennis, travel, hike, and spend time with my friends and family. At Bates, you can find me on the field for club lacrosse, practicing for club tennis, or enjoying some rest on the PGill couches in between classes or with friends. I had so much fun on my AESOP trip and cannot wait to show everyone all the magic that both Bates and Maine have to offer through exploring some of its very best spots! Get ready for an adventure-packed AESOP filled with city vibes, unforgettable ‘sop moments, and so much fun (hopefully with some campfires in between)!

Hi everyone! My name is Katherine Hansen (she/her) and I’m SO excited to ‘SOP it up with y’all in August! I am a rising sophomore from San Francisco, CA and planning on a double major in Psychology and English. I may not be a varsity athlete here at Bates, but I’m a very enthusiastic member of the club lacrosse team and also volunteer with students here in Lewiston. I also stayed in the area for my AESOP, and I’m so excited to introduce you all to Maine’s local delights! Feel free to reach out to either Ava or me with any questions about AESOP or anything first-year related!

CitySOP 2

Hi everyone, I’m Alannah, I use she/her pronouns and I am SO excited to meet you all!!! I’m from New York City but you can find me residing on campus in Chu. Like CBreezy, I’m also on the Bates Track and Field team (JUMP SQUAD!!) and I’m planning on double majoring…but in Philosophy and Economics. On campus, one of my favorite things to do is sit outside infront of the library with my friends. Or maybe spending too much time looking at the Bates gear in Post&Print. A few fun facts about me are that I love cycling, I’m really good at making rice krispie treats (hmu for the commons recipe deets), and my all-time favorite music artist is Coldplay. Can’t wait to meet all of you!!!!

Hey everyone!!! My name is Carly, I use she/her pronouns, and I am so excited to lead CitySOP 2 with my bestie Alannah! At home I am from Arlington, MA, but here on campus I am a resident of Wilson House (cool face). I’m a double major in Environmental Studies and Studio Art, with a minor in Earth & Climate Sciences. I am a Multi-eventer on the Bates Track & Field team, which means I compete in the heptathlon! In my free time I love to knit, spend time in nature, play the guitar, and try out new Commons recipes with Alannah. Some things I can’t stop listening to right now are: The Shins, Watchhouse, Chris Stapleton, and Khrungbin. Some fun facts about me: I’m a ramen enthusiast, I know way too much about trees, and I have a labradoodle named Otis. GET EXCITED TO EXPLORE WITH US!!

If you are interested in doing community engagement work to give back to our local community, then this trip is definitely for you! On this trip, you and your group will spend time volunteering with local organizations in the Lewiston/Auburn area. This group will be coming back to sleep on campus both days and will enjoy meals from Commons Dining Hall with their fellow AESOPers and leaders.

• Evacuation Access Level: 1
• Frontcountry
• Activity Level: Intermediate
• Sleeping Arrangements: In your Bates room assignment on campus

Meet the leaders!

Hi! My name is Mary Beth Tune (she/her) and I am an incoming senior! I’m from Nashville, Tennessee, but I have been spending my summers in Maine since I was 6 weeks old. I’m double majoring in English and Art History and recently returned from studying abroad in Rome, Italy. On campus, you can usually find me reading on the quad, singing in the Bates College Choir at Olin, or grabbing early dinner with friends in Commons. I have held multiple positions with my favorite office on campus, The Harward Center! These include tutoring kids at Lewiston elementary schools, recruiting Bates volunteers for our community partners, and organizing arts-related events for Lewiston/Auburn kids. Ines and I are super excited to meet our AESOPers and can’t wait to introduce y’all to Lewiston and Auburn through a Community-engaged lens!

Hello! My name is Ines (she/her), I’m a incoming senior, and am so excited to meet you all! I was born and raised in New York but am also Mexican and Canadian. I’m a psych major and music minor with a general education concentration in adolescents, school and learning. A couple semesters ago I studied abroad in Spain which was an incredible experience. Here at Bates you can find me playing cello at the Olin Arts Center, president-ing the small ensembles club, and photosynthesizing outdoors when there’s sunshine. I’ve had a variety of opportunities here for community engaged learning at local schools in lewiston, an emotional well-being non-profit in the greater Maine area, and even a boarding school! Mary Beth and I are finally starting a band (it’s been in the works for a couple years) and are looking forward to inviting you all to future concerts. We can’t wait to show you why we love Bates, and introduce y’all to a wonderful community of people :)

This trip is for you if you love to cook, want to learn how to cook, or want to learn some new and exciting recipes! You will spend your days with select campus partners learning how to take ingredients and make magic. Outside of the kitchen, you might find yourself exploring campus, playing games, or getting sweet treats just up the road at Dairy Joy. The opportunities are endless!

• Evacuation Access Level: 1
• Frontcountry
• Activity Level: Low
• Sleeping Arrangements: In your Bates room assignment on campus

Meet the leaders!

Hey Class of ’28! My name is Zain Ali and I’m beyond excited to lead CulinarySOP! I’m from Cincinnati, Ohio and have lived there for the past 6 years (and the 12 before that in Canada). Some fun facts about me is that I’m a rising sophomore intending on double majoring in Biochemistry and Economics on the Pre-Med track. Outside of school, I love playing Soccer (Messi’s the GOAT) and Volleyball! In my spare time, I volunteer at Central Maine Medical Center and am also involved in the Bates College Student Government! I can’t wait to cook up some great memories on this trip! 

Hey future AESOPers!! My name is Mohammad Zayd, and I am so excited to be leading CulinarySOP for you all! A little about me is I am a rising sophomore, currently undecided but probably double major in Physics and Religious Studies going pre-med. I am originally from the Bronx, NY, but I’m glad to be able to call Maine home for the past year now. Outside of academics, I am on the Bollywood dance team, the South Asian Student Association, the Robinson Players (Bates’ theater and play production club), and a tour guide. If you ever see me giving a tour, make sure to say Happy Birthday! Whether I am hanging in the Quad throwing a frisbee around or I am at commons studying, I love meeting new people and enjoying good food! I can’t wait to meet you all soon and learn more about Maine, Lewiston, cooking, and Bates. Let’s cook up some great memories on this trip!  

If you love to hike, but don’t love the part where you sleep outside, this trip is for you! You will spend your days hiking different mountains in the area such as Tumbledown, Bradbury, and others. At night, you will return to campus to play games, explore, and hang out with your new classmates. All meals will be from the Commons Dining Hall.

• Evacuation Access Level: 2
• Frontcountry
• Activity Level: High
• Sleeping Arrangements: In your Bates room assignment on campus

Meet the leaders!

Day Hiking 1

Hello AESOPER’SSSS!!! My name is Aleisha and I am a rising junior from Mexico City, Mexico. I am majoring in Biochemistry and Politics here at Bates and could not be more excited to welcome you to our lovely community. As someone who did not grow up close to many outdoor activities moving to Maine has provided me with the chance to hike, ski, and swim in some of the most beautiful places. With that, I am forever biased and think that AESOP is one of the best parts of the Bates experience: not only do you get to explore, but you also get to spend time with an amazing group of people that will grow alongside you and support you throughout the next four years. Hadley and I are bffs (she explicitly told me not to use this word) and roommates are committed to giving you the best AESOP ever!!! We cannot wait to meet you!!!! Safe travels and see you in Maine! P.S I am in the one in the dark grey hoodie in the snow pic and the striped shirt in the other picture :).

Hey y’all, I’m Hadley and I’m also a rising junior. I’m majoring in Earth and Climate Sciences (EACS) and Music. Since I’m from Buckfield Maine, I have had the privilege of growing up with the wilderness and nature at the tip of my fingers. Hiking, camping, and skiing were just things I thought everyone was doing. I didn’t think anything of it until I moved to college and rediscovered just how breathtaking and peaceful Maine can be. I also recognized the lucky situation that I had in my childhood. Some brief interests of mine include writing, anything outdoors, needle felting, playing piano, and photography. But as fun as these things are, something I hold dear to my heart is exploring the state with my friends and sharing with them the experiences they didn’t have before coming to Bates. Now, I can’t wait to share the magnificent state which you’ll now call home for the next four years. Excited to meet you!

Day Hiking 2

Hi Y’all! My name is Hannah, and I am super hyped to be leading day hikes around the best state on the East Coast. I am a senior Biology major and Earth and Climate Sciences minor from New Hampshire, and I spent my childhood being bribed to hike with lots of Skittles. After developing a positive relationship with both nature and candy, I started to love all things mountains, oceans, and chocolate. At Bates, I am on the rowing team, and I cross train with my job as a Student Sweeper and my frequent walks to Dunkin. I am a lifeguard, but if you get injured, go to Ian – he is pre-med! I can’t wait to meet y’all soon and go on some wild adventures around both Maine and the Puddle.

Hey everyone!! My name is Ian and I’m going to be a Senior majoring in Biology and minoring in Chemistry. I’m from Seattle, so I bring a little west coast representation among all these east coasters. While there, I love to get out and hike the beautiful, majestic, awe-inspiring, and some might say, better mountains that we’ve got. You know, it’s just hard to find that same kind of magic all the way out here! Kidding… kind of. Obviously, I’m super excited to get out day hiking with y’all and explore some of the awesome hiking trails around the area! Like Hannah, I’m a member of the rowing team so we’ve gotten to know each other pretty well. I plan to eventually become a doctor, but I’ll never be able to compare to Hannah’s craaazy lifeguard skills so be sure to direct any first aid problems her way :). All jokes aside, we both can’t wait to meet everybody and introduce y’all to Bates!!

Spend your first weekend on campus dancing! This trip will stay on campus and in the local area for the weekend devising and creating a performance through the exploration of the art of movement. You will also learn about dance programs, clubs, and opportunities at Bates!

• Evacuation Access Level: 1
• Frontcountry
• Activity Level: Moderate
• Sleeping Arrangements: In your Bates room assignment on campus

Meet the leaders!

Hello! My name is Jaewoo Kim, and I’m a senior from California studying Sociology and Rhetoric, Film, and Screen Studies. I swim for the varsity team and enjoy dancing, tricking, and editing videos in my free time. I’m really excited to meet you all!

Hi everyone! My name is Josh Collins and I’m a senior Biology major here at Bates. I’m originally from Bodega Bay, California but now call Lewiston my home. Both my co-leader and I are so excited to be leading this trip this year! In my free time I love to cook, sing with the Manic Optimists A cappella group, and hangout with my friends. Again, I’m so excited for this trip and we hope you all are too!

Salt Pump Climbing Co provides a great rock climbing experience combined with more of a chill atmosphere, perfect for more beginner-level climbers. Head to Salt Pump climbing gym for some awesome indoor rock climbing, spend some time at Bates’ own climbing wall, and a variety of other fun outdoor activities, determined by you and your leaders, on and near the Bates campus. There will be bathroom access and running water all days of the trip. 

• Evacuation Access Level: 1
• Frontcountry
• Activity Level: Moderate
• Sleeping Arrangements: In your Bates room assignment on campus

Meet the leaders!

Hi all, my name is Alan Pham and I am a rising junior. I use he/him pronouns. I am from Salt Lake, Utah and I am extra excited to bring you rock climbing. A bit of background, I have been bouldering for three years. I’ve competitively rock climbed and could probably carry James on my back up the wall. I also really like snowboarding but the ice coast is definitely tough! A couple of other things that I enjoy doing are: hiking, camping, drawing, and debating. Fun fact, I like wearing sandals in most weather, especially to go snowboarding :)

Greetings and salutations! My name is James and I’m a rising junior. I go by he/him pronouns. I am from Syracuse, New York and am super excited to lead you on some rock climbing this year. While I am not becoming one with the wall I can be found around campus participating in various clubs and activities. I do Model UN and Club Volleyball and am always up to try something new. This is what brought me to aesop because I consider myself deeply concerned about cultivating a vibe. Outside of school and clubs, I love getting outside in nature whether it be going for a run, hike, or camping trip. I’m an avid reader and movie watcher for my media enjoyment and fun fact my favorite movie is The Lighthouse.

Nezinscot Farm, located just 20 minutes away from campus in Turner, is perhaps the perfect spot to spend a day outside—if you don’t mind getting your hands dirty, that is. The farm is surrounded by 250 acres of organic farmland consisting of veggie gardens, rolling fields, farm animals, and the Nezinscot River. Although there are a variety of farming activities included in this trip, related to produce as well as livestock, you can expect to have some dirt under your nails by the end of the day! Running water and toilets are available at Nezinscot farm.

• Evacuation Access Level: 1
• Frontcountry
• Activity Level: Intermediate
• Sleeping Arrangements: In your Bates room assignment on campus

Meet the leaders!

“She’s perfect… God I love that woman.” – Kayleigh Flaherty ‘26
“Radiant like the sun… great hugs.” – Lauren Cockrill ‘26

What do you get when you mix the artistry of Frida Kahlo, the acting range of Michelle Yeoh, the voice of Whitney Houston, and a whole lot of mental sanity? Idk, honestly, but Jiayi Yang is a completely wonderful human being with many talents and a huge heart. Jiayi is a rising senior from China, with a major in Sociology and minors in Hispanic Studies and Theater, and having worked and been friends with her for 3 years now, I can tell you that she is simply the G.O.A.T. A virtuoso with the pen and paper (or the Apple Pencil and iPad), a veteran theater actor and stage manager, a true soprano, and possibly the ultimate mother figure of all mother figures, Jiayi is incomparable, one-of-a-kind, and the best AESOP leader you will ever meet. I’m gonna run out of words to describe my amazing co-leader (trust me, there’s so much more to say but so little space), BUT if you need to know one last thing about Jiayi, it’s that she will keep our whole trip together, and possibly save the world. She’s the Avatar, I think.

Fun Fact: If you find any small pieces of paper with super cool drawings on them in the library, you have been graced by the supreme being Jiayi Yang. Cherish this piece of paper forever for 10 years of good luck.

“I totally applied to be an AESOP leader with Joaquin just so I can write this bio which will tell you what a chaotically precious human being Joaquin is.” ——Jiayi Yang, 03/25/2024

Trying my absolute best to tell you honestly about the wonderful-ness of Joaquin with limited words is giving me anxiety right now. But forget about anxiety; you’ll get to experience the magic Joaquin brings yourself the moment you meet them. As a rising senior from the Philippines, Joaquin passionately and proudly identifies as a woman in STEM with a major in Theater——and a woman in art with Neuroscience as the other major along with a minor in DCS. And you think they only thrive in academics and art??? NUH-UH! An active and advanced player in competitive frisbee, a talented and skilled cook and baker, a yet-to-be-published co-author of a children’s book, an exceedingly incredible actor, the Artistic Director of The Robinson Players (aka the theater group you should join :P), a fashion icon with iconic laughter, Joaquin is THE person everyone needs in their lives for more colors, fun, and inspiration. With their bright personalities, rich experiences in and outside of Bates, and amazing leaderships, and so much more I can’t fit into this space, you WILL have one of the most unforgettable trips, E.V.E.R.

From a mutual friend: “(Joaquin) Reaches for the stars but gets to the bars. *Champagne emoji. (The posting of this quote is supported by Joaquin’s full consent.)

This trip will be an amazing hands-on experience in developing your film! Work through every element of the film-making process, from writing a script and characters to filming scenes to putting it all together for an amazing film. This trip, while centered on campus, will be able to travel to different locations in the nearby area to film different scenes and experiences. Anyone on this trip should come prepared to act, screen write, or help develop an awesome movie. No previous experience in film or the arts is required, and there will be access to normal bathrooms and running water.

• Evacuation Access Level: 1
• Frontcountry
• Activity Level: Moderate
• Sleeping Arrangements: In your Bates room assignment on campus

Meet the Leaders!

Meet me, Emma Seitz, the master of whimsy and wonder! With a penchant for music and a lust for play writing, I spend my time singing in school bands, and directing plays. When I’m not busy dreaming up fantastical worlds or singing alone in a damp corner, you can find me frolicking in nature, seeking inspiration from the beauty of the world. Join me this film festival AESOP where Instead of seeking crunchiness in the wilderness, I can bring the crunchiness to you in the comfort of Bates College.

Yo yo YO what’s up my names Kyle!! And guess what…I’m Canadian! Yep you read that right and yes I love maple syrup and moose and saying sorry and all that jazz. My other qualities make up for my unfortunate Canadian identity such as the fact that I can SEND it in the park like really rip some snowboarding tricks (my fave being the Double Whammy 696 Torque Flip Spin) and happen to love films! You can usually find me chillin with my boys chatting about incredibly deep and mind altering content…or running around with Emma my number 1. We are what you could call a dynamic duo and can’t wait to make something almost as good as my favorite ~film~ Sharknado 1 2 & 3. I just got back from a rocking year abroad in New Zealand and then Nantucket—exotic, I know—where I attended a film school! Super excited to get back to Bates and romp around with my dog Emma and you all. Mic drop. Kyle out.

Spend your first weekend at school canoeing in one of the most beautiful places in Maine! This trip will sleep at Cathedral Pines Campground, right on the shores of Flagstaff Lake. The shoreline is largely undeveloped, leaving lots of wilderness to be seen. Spend your days paddling, and your evenings around the campfire eating yummy meals cooked on a camp stove. There is even a small beach at the campground the relax at the end of the day.

Fun fact: In 1950, Central Maine Power flooded the village of Flagstaff to make way for a hydro-dam, so the abandoned village lies at the bottom of the lake, 50 feet below your canoes!

• Evacuation Access Level: 2
• Frontcountry
• Activity Level: High
• Sleeping Arrangements: Camping in tents

Meet the Leaders!

Flagstaff Canoeing 1

Heyyo! I’m Hugh and Im so excited to be your AESOP leader this fall! I use He/Him pronouns and I’m from JOB (just outside Boston). I’m a sophmore here and I already have an extensive resume; I rocked on intramural basketball (RIP Frowers), I’m on the crew team, and I am famous for my wicked dance moves and any school-sanctioned luau and soiree. In terms of my personality, I have two major attributes, I’m obsessed with bears and rowing. I love rowing so much its like basically all I can yap about (that and Deerfield, GO DOORS!), and I’m really good at it too. I keep up with fat bear week religiously and I hope to pet one one day. In my free time I am also an excellent video-gamer and I watch hobby-horsing videos :) I have a very close relationship with my dog, Chance. May and I go way back, all the way to our AESOP trips and we are beyond excited to make this experience memorable and an opportunity to create lasting friendships here at Bates. P.S I am also on club hockey.

Hey Traveler! I’m May, and I can’t wait to be your AESOP leader! I use She/Her pronouns, and am from Rochester New York. Growing up in the midwest I always appreciated the outdoors, and cats (meOW!). I unfortunately own no cats, but am extremely allergic to tree nuts (but I’m still quite the tree hugger). When I am older I hope to own somewhere between 3-11.5 cats. I am a member of the rowing team and love the sport! I am obsessed with all things archaeology, and hope someday to dig up a dead body or two. When I am not learning more about archaeology I am usually watching sesame street, or excitedly sending my friends sesame street songs. I really relate to big bird. He’s sort of my idol. Hugh and I met on our own adjacent-AESOP trips and hope to help our campers find long lasting friends like we did. See you on the flip side, KERCHOW!

Flagstaff Canoeing 2

AESOPPPERS! Welcome to the Lew! My name is Zach Van Dusen, and I am a Senior. I grew up on a little island outside Seattle named Vashon Island. Fun fact, Vashon is where the modern edition of the Tissue was invented. I am an Earth and Climate Sciences Major that loves looking at rocks, most of which I cannot identify. I love nothing more than ripppping some card games. I am an active member of the Bates Men’s Ultimate team (def join!). I am super excited to explore more of the backcountry in the Northeast with you all! It will surely be a hoot.

Hi future AESOPers!! My name is Claire Bohmer, and I grew up in Steamboat Springs, Colorado. I am an upcoming senior here at Bates College (thrilling) pursuing a B.S. in Biochemistry (also thrilling). A few things about me: My favorite food is baby bell cheese and blueberries. My number one Spotify artist for the past four years has been Phillip Glass (the best-ever classical music composer) which has led me to develop a crippling need to learn to play piano. Lastly, I am an avid collector of heart rocks. Zach and I could not be more excited to lead a canoeing trip and meet you guys!!

Grafton Notch has so many spectacular views of Maine. This 20-mile backpacking trip will carry you through Grafton Notch State Park. Explore scenic views in this highest-level difficulty trip. Due to the remote nature of campsites, there will be no access throughout the trip to bathrooms and running water. However, those who hike this will experience a great outdoor bonding experience in some of the most beautiful parts of Maine. Those with a can-do attitude and a willingness to hike long amounts of difficult terrain in a short amount of time will love this hike, and it is built for them!

• Evacuation Access Level: 4
• Backcountry
• Activity Level: Highest
• Amenities: No potable water (all water will be treated), privy toilets
• Sleeping Arrangements: Under a tarp exposed to the outside with sleeping bags
• This trip will include dehydrated meals!

Meet the leaders!

Grafton Backpacking 1

Hi all, I’m Colby, a senior from New Jersey. Like Mitch, I’m also studying Earth and Climate Science at Bates, mostly for the crazy places you get to go to do research (my favorites have been Alaska and Greenland so far). I’m the commodore of the Bates sailing club and a trip leader with the outing club, and will be shamelessly plugging both during our trip. I’m currently studying abroad in Denmark which has been amazing and has given me the chance to travel to a whole bunch of places in Europe. I do miss Bates and Maine though. Excited to meet you all!

What’s (ae)SOP everybody?? I’m Mitchel, a senior from Bedford, NH studying Earth and Climate Science. I absolutely love a good adventure, which is why I co-managed the Outing Club for a year and continue to be involved. I’ve enjoyed being a part of the sailing and club alpine skiing teams, and my favorite part about Bates is its cozy community. I’m currently studying abroad in Svalbard, an island between Norway and the north pole, so hopefully I’ll have time to defrost before our trip. I can’t wait to meet you all and welcome you to Bates! Go Grafton!!

Grafton Backpacking 2

What is up Class of 2028! My name is Ellie (she/her) and I am a senior double majoring in math and politics. I am from Colorado Springs, Colorado where I first developed my love for mountains and cannot wait to traipse through the Maine wilderness this fall with you. I am SO SO excited to be leading AESOP this year and can’t wait to get to know all of you. Here are some things I love that we can talk about on the trail. Making aesthetic yogurt bowls in commons, laying down fire beats on the recorder, Bates Cold Front (Women’s and Gender Non-Conforming Frisbee Team), the Ronj at early hours of the morning, running along the ‘scog, crocs, pikas, the first snow of the season, and my fearless co-leader and wonderful friend LIV MYERS. Happy summer and see you in the fall!

Heyo, my name is Liv (she/her) and I am a senior biochemistry major with a minor in religious studies. I am from Stillwater, Minnesota and I am thrilled to meet you all and go backpacking. Some hobbies of mine include cross country skiing, biking, reading, listening to music, frisbee, making ice cream, and chilling with dogs. I cannot wait to show you all of the sunny spots on campus and my favorite common’s creations. Here’s to sweaty hiking, mountain views, and Nerd’s gummy clusters™ by day and hot cocoa/ tea, card games, and stargazing by night.

Grafton Notch has so many spectacular views of Maine. This base camping trip will let you experience some of them for yourself. This high-activity level trip will camp at Grafton Notch Campground, just a few miles from trailheads, waterfalls, and scenic areas. After hiking during the day, you will spend your nights around the campfire eating delicious meals cooked on a camp stove with your new classmates!

• Evacuation Access Level: 3
• Frontcountry
• Activity Level: High
• Amenities: Running water, showers and flush toilets
• Sleeping Arrangements: Camping in tents

Meet the leaders!

Hi, my name is David Nimura (he/him/his) and I am a senior born and raised in New York. In my free time, I like to binge-watch Miyazaki movies, cook and eat with friends, and root for my favorite English Premier League soccer team, Tottenham. My favorite ice cream flavor is cookies and cream and spirit animal is definitely a platypus. I am excited to lead AESOP because I loved my AESOP and it was one of the many reasons why my first year started off so well! As an AESOP leader I can’t wait to help build a community and help everyone connect and meet some awesome people!

Hi guys! My name is Olivia Szachta (she/her/hers) and I am a senior from Duxbury, Massachusetts. In my spare time, you can likely find me on the Androscoggin River since I am a part of the rowing team here at Bates! Otherwise, I am likely hanging with my friends in hammocks if the weather is nice, making friendship bracelets, reading, and doing puzzles. My favorite animal is a duck which made living by the puddle my freshman year such a joy, and my favorite ice cream flavor is m&m. I am super pumped to be leading a trip with one of my best friends, who I met on AESOP, and to get to know all of you!

Hey guys!! My name is Morgan and I’m a rising senior this year double majoring in Politics and Philosophy and am on the varsity Bates Swim team alongside my co leader Matt! I am so very excited to meet each of you and go on an adventure in the great Maine woods! As a born and raised Mainer, I’m thrilled to bring you guys along with us as you transition to living in this beautiful state!

Hey y’all!!! My name is Matt and I’m a rising junior this year double majoring in Psychology and Philosophy and am a distance swimmer on the swim team. I’m from central Jersey and came to Bates to experience all of the nature and outdoorsiness. I can’t wait to go on this adventure with all of you and Morgan!!!!

Want to give back to the community whilst working on your home-building skills? If so, then this trip is for you! This will be a great opportunity to work on projects that will serve as a great service to the community of Rockland, Maine. Students will be working on projects in Rockland and/or St. George (subject to change). First years will be able to get out and explore Maine while offering great service to those in need and bonding with each other over different games! Students will have access to bathrooms and will be sleeping off campus near the worksite for this trip. 

• Evacuation Access Level: 1 
• Frontcountry
• Activity Level: Intermediate
• Sleeping Arrangements: Inside a local church with sleeping bags

Meet the leaders!

What’s up class of 2028! It’s me, Adam Joseph, and I couldn’t be happier to welcome you to your new habitat(see what I did there), Bates! I am a Sociology major in the class of 2025 hailing from the great state of Connecticut, although as you’ll see from my hats and sweatshirts I like to think of myself as a New Yorker (the first 8 months of my life really affected my sports team allegiances). Haley and I are soooo excited to lead this trip as AESOP is what initially brought us together! Here on this wonderful campus I can be seen in many different locations, so I thought I’d use this as an opportunity to refresh your memory of some of Bates’ best spots(as a tour guide I feel obligated to do so). In the Olin Arts Center you can find me singing with the Manic Optimists, my jaw-dropping a cappella group. When the weather is warm I love to play spikeball, toss the baseball, study, and relax on Garcelon Field. My claim to fame is the intramural basketball trophy that Haley and I hoisted within the four walls of Alumni Gym, getting buckets and hanging out with our beloved team, nah, family. As a seasoned Habitat for Humanity veteran(I led this trip sophomore year), I can’t wait to show you all the ropes and the beautiful town of Rockland, Maine. We are so stoked to welcome you to this amazing campus… See you in August!!!

Hi team! Writing to say hi and give you another (one of many more to come) “Welcome to Bates”! I am a senior and prior to my time at Bates, my home was New Jersey (yes I’ll go to bat for it!) but I went to high school in New York City so I sometimes claim I’m from there (yes real New Yorkers are not big fans of this). At Bates, I spend my time studying (American Studies and Digital and Computational Studies mostly), touring prospective students around campus, working hard with and for my intramural sports team (aka my family, aka current intramural basketball champions), lingering and procrastinating in the comfort of Commons, adventuring to enjoy Maine’s beautiful coast and mountains, cruising down the Quad on my pink razor scooter (when the snow finally melts), and enjoying the some of the greatest company I ever have! You are becoming a part of something really special here at Bates and I am so excited for you all to experience and join in on the energy of this campus. The first smart choice you made was choosing Bates, the second should be joining Adam and I on this exciting adventure! Cheers to August and AESOP!

Hi! I’m Drew (she/her) and I’m from Guilford, Connecticut, which is 30 minutes outside of New Haven. I’m an Environmental Studies major, Math minor and I’m on the tennis team. I love to run, hike, and eat ice cream (preferably cookies and cream). I am so excited to be an AESOP leader this year to get to know everyone and introduce Bates!

My name is Will Phillips and I am a senior Econ Major and Spanish Minor. I also play on the Golf and Hockey team at Bates. I enjoy listening to music, getting outside, and photography in my free time. I am so excited to get to know you guys and help you through the first weeks of college!

Spend your days exploring a variety of lakefront beaches around campus and spend your evenings eating in Commons Dining Hall, exploring campus, playing games with your new classmates, and more! Swimming, beach games, lounging in the sun… what more could you ask for?!

• Evacuation Access Level: 1
• Frontcountry
• Activity Level: Low
• Sleeping Arrangements: In your Bates room assignment on campus

Meet the leaders!

What’s up AESOPers! My name is Eli Toffel (he/him), I am a rising Senior from Brookline Massachusetts, and I am really excited to be an Aesop leader this year! At Bates, I am the co-president of club soccer, I am the secretary of club chess, and I enjoy watching movies and tv with friends. I also studied abroad in Madrid my fall semester of Junior year, and have lived all over campus throughout my bates career. I’m very exited to lead Lake Chillin with Dani as we both like the lake and we both like to chill. Can’t wait!

Hey AESOPers! My name is Dani Levy (she/her) and a rising senior majoring Math and Economics from Massachusetts. I am on the Bates Women’s Squash team and I am the Women’s team ambassador for club soccer. I studied abroad in Australia in the spring and I also speak Spanish and French. So excited to meet you all!

Spend your days exploring a variety of lakefront beaches including Sebago Lake, Range Pond, and more! Return to your campground on Sebago Lake each night for meals cooked on camp stoves, smores on the fire, relaxing, and games by firelight. Swimming, beach games, lounging in the sun… what more could you ask for?!

• Evacuation Access Level: 1
• Frontcountry
• Activity Level: Low
• Amenities: Running water, showers and flush toilets
• Sleeping Arrangements: Camping in tents

Lake Chillin 2 (BIPOC Affinity)

Hey and welcome class of ‘28!! My name is Risa and I’m a rising Senior from Queens, New York majoring in Sociology and minoring in Japanese with a Public Health concentration. At Bates, I’m the vice president of the South Asian Student Association, the community liaison for the Bollywood Dance Team, and I work as a Restorative Practices Advisor. Growing up in Queens surrounded by different kinds of cuisines has fueled my love for good food so I’m always looking to try new eats! In my free time, I love to run, dance, and rot in the sun. Johnny and can’t wait to show you the Bates experience that we love so much. We’re here to build an AESOP community that will last for your entire time at Bates and beyond! You can reach me at rhoriuch@bates.edu if you want to talk or if you have any questions. I love AESOP and I am so so excited to meet and get to know you all!

Hey everyone, super excited to meet you all, and welcome to Bates class of ’28. My name is Johnny and I am a Junior from New York, New York majoring in Economics and minoring in Digital Computational Science. At Bates, I am a part of the lacrosse team here on campus, have a radio show, and participate in community engagement with various partners with Bates. Me and Risa became great friends because of the AESOP trip and we hope to create the same relationship for all of you. You can reach me at jnunez@bates.edu if you want to talk or if you have any questions. Once again super excited to meet and get to know you all!

Lake Chillin 3 (LGBTQ+ Affinity)

Hiiiiii Bob Kittens! I’m Kendall Jones (She/Her) and I’m super excited to be an Aesop Leader this year! I’m a rising senior with a double major in biochemistry and theater. Much like Sophie, I can often be seen on campus cruising on a skateboard (but mine has light up wheels)! I also love throwing a disc around with ColdFront- one of the ultimate frisbee teams, and shredding the slopes of Lost Valley with the Club Ski Team. For inside adventures you can often see me focusing a light, or building a table for the Rob Players or various performance showcases. Similar to Sophie, coming to Bates was a thrilling but exciting experience for me, however pretty much for opposite reasons. I’m from a small town in New Hampshire, so coming to L/A with its 60K (ish) people was a huge leap for me. AESOP was an incredible experience for me as it introduced me to so many people and places in the area around campus. Beyond introducing me to the local community, I was also introduced to the Bates community – which is full of some of the most friendly and passionate people you will ever meet. Bates and L/A have allowed me to become far more confident in myself, so I am ecstatic to introduce them to you all!

Heyyy bob kittens!! My name is Sophie (she/they), and I’m a senior majoring in Stage Management for Theater with a GEC in Environmental Studies. Around campus, you might see me skateboarding from class to class, soaking in every bit of sun I can get, and hanging out with my friends! I’m involved in the Robinson Players- Bates’ century-old and student-run theater group on campus and the Asian Student Association! Coming to Bates was a thrilling and scary experience for me- I was so excited to meet new people and be in a totally different environment from New York City where I grew up, and explore all Maine has to offer. Bates’ student population is full of kind, generous, passionate students, and immediately made me feel welcome in this small tight-knit community. AESOP was such a great opportunity for me to meet others in my year that had similar interests as me, and I’m still really close with some of them! I led a base camping trip to Rangeley my sophomore year, and am so excited to be able to lead another trip and meet y’all!

Lake Chillin 4

Hey y’all! I’m Iulia (she/hers)! I’m from Westchester, NY and I am an incoming sophomore at Bates. I am a neuroscience major and planning on going pre med (basic I know). I am wicked excited to be Lake Chillin’ with you guys (and Leo)!! When I’m not leading this wonderful aesop with Leo, I play lax (shoutout women’s club lax), sing in an acapella group (a surprise to everyone), teach fourth graders in Lewiston, ski (no park though), hike, and of course chill with my friends (usually forcing them to listen to my country music). Even though I’m forced to say I’m from Westchester, I’m a Maine girl at heart. Living in Maine during the summer (ew, annoying summer kid incoming), I’d like to say I know my way around pretty well aka you’re in good hands (no promises though). Get hype for swimming (and a lil bit of tanning) during the day, sick lake games (to be determined), and sweeeet campfires at night all mixed in with a lil bit of chillin (whatever that even means). In a second, you’re about to meet my fellow co-leader Leo. He’s pretty cool (except for when he makes me type out his whole bio because he can’t spell half of the words)!

Thanks for that introduction Iulia!!! Hey guys! I’m Leo (he/him) and I’m also from Westchester, NY (we did not plan that)! I’m a sophomore studying BioChem on the pre-med track. When I’m not locked in Ladd Library studying for Chem, you can find me at Lost Valley making the slopes safer, where I work as a ski patroller. I love hiking, backpacking, skiing, and just being outside. Once the snow has melted you can catch me at our local pond practicing for the Bates Sailing Team. I could not be more excited to lead Lake Chillin with Iulia! Pack your bathing suits because this trip will be 75% Lake and 25% chillin. We will be exploring the beautiful waters of Sebago Lake and Range Pond (seriously look them up, they are so amazing). I will personally see to it that every participant has a perfectly melted s’more in their hand and a warm fire to sit around. By day we will definitely swim, hike, explore, and maybe even “chill”. By night we will cook by the campfire, play some beach games, and tell some campfire stories. Iulia and I can’t wait to chill with you guys in the fall!!

Mooselookmeguntic Lake is a beautiful 50 miles of open water located an hour and 45 minutes from campus. You will camp on an island not far from the main campground, with access to a fire ring, outhouse, and picnic table. You can expect to spend your days paddling around the lake, stopping for breaks and lunch. At night, you will be able to bond over games, cook dinners on camp stoves, sit around the campfire, and enjoy a water view right from your tent each morning.

• Evacuation Access Level: 3
• Backcountry
• Activity Level: High
• Amenities: Privy toilets
• Sleeping Arrangements: Camping in tents

Meet the leaders!

Mooselookmeguntic Canoeing 1

Hiiiiii. My name is Maggie and I’m super pumped to be leading this trip with Ben. We’re both rowers here at Bates and from California, which means that we are megaaaaa chillers :) I love all things related to dogs, the ocean, and good music. Fun fact: i can wiggle my ears lol. Anyway, can’t wait to meet you all!

Hi! I’m Ben! I am a rower from northern California. I love to hike and I’ve spent a lot of my life in the Sierras and at Lake Tahoe. If you love basketball or baseball we will be great friends. See you soon! A fun fact about me I lived in Havana, Cuba for four months my junior year.

Mooselookmeguntic Canoeing 2

Hey everyone! My name is Owen Haddad (he/him) and I am from Kalamazoo, MI. I am a senior here at Bates, majoring in U.S. History with a Digital and Computational Studies minor. Outside of the classroom, I play on Orange Whip, the Bates ultimate frisbee team. In my free time, you can find me reading a book, playing cribbage, or canoeing (whaddya know). I love Lord of the Rings, the minions from Despicable Me, and going on adventures (but not in that order). AESOP is an awesome way to explore Maine and meet new people before school gets busy, and I couldn’t be more excited to get to know y’all in the fall.

Hi yall! First of all, welcome to the adventure of a lifetime. I am Naomi Lynch (she/her) and I am co-leading Mooselookmeguntic lake Canoe trip this year! I am a rising senior at Bates, with a passion for Environmental Studies and meeting new people. Being born and raised in Maine, I have a lot of knowledge about the State, so if any of you are interested in finding some new places to spend your time, I got you. If you are ever looking for me on campus, you could probably find me riding my broken bike down Fyre Street, Commons tea station, failing to learn hackysack on the quad, on the roof of Carnegie Science Center staring at the Stars, or desperately trying to explain Lord of the Rings lore to friends in the library. I am so thrilled to meet some new bobkittens and introduce you all to the special place we call home.

Inviting all experienced hikers and beginners alike! This trip is for those who want to do what they love or for those seeking to try something new in a supportive environment. On the first day, you will conquer 4.7 miles of Tumbledown Mountain; near the summit, you might take a dip in Tumbledown Pond or simply relax on the rocky edge near the scenic water view. Be prepared for steep climbs and some scrambling rocks on the way up! The second day will let you experience Webb Lake beach after a brief and flat-trailed hike. You might even have a chance to kayak and canoe! A steep 3-mile hike up Mt. Blue, the last day of this trip offers a rewarding experience that features beautiful wildflowers and rocky climbs. This trail leads to a spectacular summit with an elevation of 3,187 feet where you may ascend to the top of an observation tower for an even better view of the mountainous landscape that surrounds Weld and Webb Lake. Enjoy your nightly stay at a campsite near the base of Mt. Bluewhere you will sleep in tents and cook on camp stoves. Bathroom/shower facilities are within a couple of hundred feet of access.

• Evacuation Access Level: 2
• Frontcountry
• Activity Level: High
• Amenities: Running water, showers and flush toilets
• Sleeping Arrangements: Camping in tents

Meet the leaders!

Mt. Blue Basecamping 1

Hi everyone! My name’s Colton, I’m from Charlotte, North Carolina. I’m an Environmental Politics major and I love sports, hiking, and hackysack. Get ready to talk movies, music, and Maine. I’m super excited to meet all of you, I know we’re going to have a great time!

Hey everybody! My name’s Ben, I’m from Westchester, New York. I’m a Psychology major with a concentration in The Human Body and I love to be outdoors, meet new people, and make great memories. There’s nothing better than getting to meet new people while doing activities you love. I can’t wait to meet all of you and get this party started!

Mt. Blue Basecamping 2

Hi Everyone! Welcome to Bates! My name is Connor (He/Him) and I’m from Scarsdale, New York! I am a junior majoring in rhetoric, film, and screen studies, and minoring in hispanic studies. When I’m not studying you may find me running around campus with the Bates Run Club, or you may find Maia and I at the WRBC radio station on Frye Street (MC Committee for a shameless plug). You may also find me working in Ladd Library with the IT department fixing computers, which I love, or just hanging out since Ladd is the #1 study spot. I love hiking and exploring the outdoors of Maine, and just recently learned how to ski here during my time at Bates (To varying degrees of success). Maia and I are so excited to meet you and support you as you transition into life at Bates! Welcome class of 2028!

Hiii class of 28! Welcome to Bates! My name is Maia (she/her) and I am from Larchmont, NY! I am a junior double major in Environmental Studies and Psychology with a minor in Education. When I’m not studying in Ladd Library or the Environmental Studies lounge (best sunlight!), you can find me leading tours, making Instagram posts for the Bates Theater & Dance social media page, and running around doing this & that in the department or the Robinson Player’s theater productions. If you’re up late enough, you can find me and Connor at the WRBC radio station on Frye Street spinning our show MC Committee! On the weekends, I’ll definitely be at Forage with a breakfast sandwich, at the Ronj with an iced dirty chai latte, or skiing and exploring the beautiful nature around Bates and Lewiston/Auburn! Connor and I are so excited to meet you and welcome you to the wonderful community of Bates! Feel free to reach out with a song you want on our AESOP playlist or if you have any questions about Bates/AESOP/anything! mseigerman@bates.edu

Mt. Blue Basecamping 3

Izzy Beck uses she/her pronouns. She is from New Jersey but she says she is from New York. She is a member of the class of 2025. She is a coxswain on the men’s rowing team. She takes voice lessons just to practice yelling! She enjoys crossword puzzles, philosophy books, and trudging through bushes and brambles if the path might lead to a sneaky good view. Izzy spent a semester in the South of France, where she learned to love gorgonzola, the trams that go fast around bends, and wild hogs. She is so excited to welcome a new group of people into our community and, as a former resident of Webb House, she cannot wait to take a dip in Webb Lake! -Daniel

Daniel (he/him) is a rising senior from somewhere in mid-coast Maine. Daniel is the fearless leader of the men’s frisbee team (go Whip!) and has recently taken up slacklining as a passion project. He is a big fan of hot cocoa. A whiz with words, Daniel can solve any Monday crossword puzzle. He is a Mainer at heart, sure to pack adventure sandals and extra snacks on every excursion he takes. Daniel is totally bilingual as a French major, but don’t try speaking with him unless you want to hear his gnarly southern accent. He also loves to draw dragons and other cool things. They’re pretty realistic. Join Daniel (and me) on a three-day journey through the wilderness, with lots of hiking, perhaps some swimming, and definitely plenty of snacking. -Izzy

Want to learn how to hone your photography skills? While we can’t guarantee you will be a professional at the end of your trip, we can guarantee that you will learn new things and make friends and memories that will last you a long time. Explore campus and the local areas to find inspiration, learn tips and tricks on our cameras, or bring your own! This trip is for those who love photography, are new to photography, or have never touched a camera before. Come one, come all! You will leave with an epic photo album to remember the weekend by.

• Evacuation Access Level: 1
• Frontcountry
• Activity Level: Moderate
• Sleeping Arrangements: In your Bates room assignment on campus

Meet the leaders!

Maggie Amann (she/her/hers): I am a double major in neuroscience and Hispanic studies and I love the outdoors, including surfing, running, and skiing! I’m a huge fan of spontaneous adventures, including but not limited to sledding in a kayak down Mt. David. My favorite food is watermelon, I’m a middle child (and proud of it), I often crane my neck from looking at the moon, and I’m super excited to meet all the new incoming first-years and have an epic AESOP!

Julia Brophy (she/her/hers): I am a Biology Major with a Chemistry Minor and I am also on the Track and Field team! I am from Vermont and have grown up loving the outdoors! I love to ski, hike, bike, and swim. I am also an avid dog lover and will most likely show you pictures of my dogs. I can’t wait to meet the incoming first years and go on an adventure together! AESOP is such a fun and unique time and I can’t wait to share that with the incoming class!

Spend your first weekend at Bates being led around the beautiful city of Portland! Based on the group’s desires, your leaders will take you to museums, beaches, shops, waterfront, and more! We will provide many options for arts, outdoors, food, and fun, but you get to help decide. This trip is meant to be an opportunity for everyone to do what they love!

• Evacuation Access Level: 1
• Frontcountry
• Activity Level: Moderate
• Amenities: In your Bates room assignment on campus
• Sleeping Arrangements:

Meet the leaders!

Portland Exploration 1 (Women of Color Affinity)

Helloo batesies :)) I’m Ruhani, an international student from New Delhi, India. I plan on majoring in biology and psychology and minoring in chemistry. A little bit more about me- I love meeting new people, hanging out with friends, playing pool, and I am also a part of the Bollywood dance club. I recently joined the tennis club and serve on the international club executive board. I can’t wait to meet y’all and get to know you guys more!! Get ready to join me on an epic trip exploring Portland – it’s going to be a blast! 🎉🎉

Hiiii everyone and welcome to Batessss :)) I’m Mehar and I’m an international student from Chandigarh, India. I can’t wait for y’all to start college at this amazing place! I have absolutely loved my time at Bates so far and I’m sure you will too! A little bit about me: I play on the Women’s Golf team and I want to major and minor in Psychology and DCS. Other than that, I spend my time working out, playing pool at Chase and (sometimes) dancing at the Bollywood Dance Club (MUST TRY). On campus, I am either in Commons or some building nearby (I just want to be close to Commons at all times). I’m so so excited to lead this trip and explore the beautiful city of Portland with you guys!

Portland Exploration 2

Hey bobkittens!! My name is Ava and I’m so excited to welcome you to Bates! I’m a rising junior from Katonah, New York, majoring in Rhetoric, Film, and Screen Studies and minoring in Spanish. If I’m not grinding out an essay in the Ronj with a dirty chai in hand, I’m either singing with my a cappella group, Take Note, or doing something for a student directed theater production. In my free time I can be found skiing with my friends, volunteering at a local elementary school with playground pals, or eating a breakfast sandwich at Forage in Lewiston (they have the best bagels!!). A fun fact about me is that I have a twin sister! I’m stoked to lead this trip with my best friend/ co leader, Gail, we can’t wait to meet you all and support you through your transition to Bates! Have an amazing summer and feel free to reach out with any questions, or if you just want to say hi- aelghanayan@bates.edu

Hey there, future AESOPers!! My name is Gail (she/her), and I am a rising Junior from Rockport, Maine. I’m a big fan of spending time outdoors—I love swimming (especially polar plunges), sailing, hiking, camping, and soaking up the sun. At Bates, you can find me reading in the library or sipping on a chai latte from Le Ronj Coffeehouse. I am pursuing an English major with a Creative Writing concentration and a Rhetoric, Film, and Screen Studies minor. I have an on-campus job as a Campus Life Social Media Manager. I am also heavily involved in Bates’ literary scene, as a writer for the Bates Student and an editor and community liaison for Snaggletooth Literary Magazine. Ava and I met on our first night at Bates as freshmen and we’ve been Batesties (Bates Besties) ever since! We are SO STOKED to meet you all in the fall and welcome you to Bates. Got any questions about Maine or Bates? Bring ‘em on! Don’t hesitate to reach out to me at gcurtis@bates.edu. I am wishing you all an awesome summer, and I can’t wait to see you all soon!!

Located in the mesmerizing wilderness of western Maine, Rangeley Lake State Park offers the best of both worlds when it comes to experiencing the outdoors. This base camping trip allows you to hike for multiple days while also enjoying plenty of downtime. You can expect to go on day hikes in the area, returning to camp at Rangeley Lake State Park where you will spend the rest of the evenings. There are both shower and toilet facilities available in the state park. This trip is perfect for anyone who wants to experience the picturesque natural landscape that Maine has to offer without the intensity of a backpacking trip. 

• Evacuation Access Level: 3
• Frontcountry
• Activity Level: High
• Amenities: Running water, showers and flush toilets
• Sleeping Arrangements: Camping in tents

Meet the leaders!

Rangeley Basecamping 1

Hi everyone! My name is Annie Smith, I am a current sophomore here at Bates, and I am from Essex Massachusetts! A few things about me! I am a member of the women’s lacrosse team, I have two dogs, I am the youngest of four siblings, and a fun fact about me is that I have been skydiving! I love concerts, the beach, animals, food, the ocean, movies, my friends and family, but also BATES! I grew up going to my grandparents house, and a summer camp in Maine, so I love it up here in the summer, and I can’t wait for you all to experience this! I am so so so excited to be a leader this year for AESOP! My AESOP trip is still one of my favorite memories from freshman year, so I hope I can provide the same experience for some of you! I grew up camping with my family, and spending all my summers on the water – hence my excitement for this trip – it’s going to be SO fun! Amanda and I have so many fun plans and ideas for this trip and we hope everyone is as excited as we are! I literally can’t wait to meet all of you new freshmen and help you experience the awesomeness that is Bates, and AESOP trips! Get excited!!

Hi! My name is Amanda DiTommaso. I’m from New Jersey, Ridgewood to be exact and I will be leading Rangeley Basecamping 1! Some fun facts about me is that I play on the Varsity Womens Lacrosse team here at bates, I play piano in my free time, and I talk a lot. Finally I am very excited to be a AESOP leader because I can confidently say AESOP was one of the best ways to be welcomed to college.

Rangeley Basecamping 2

Hey everyone! My name’s Lucy (She/Her), and I’m a junior Sociology major from Los Angeles California. In my free time, I enjoy reading, writing (for our awesome student newspaper), giving tours to prospective students for admissions, and hanging out with my friends. AESOP is one of my favorite memories here at Bates and I’m so excited to get to lead Rangeley 2 and to meet all of you first-year students! Roll Cats!

Hi baby bobcats!! I’m Sarah (she/her) and I’m a junior history major and education minor from the Chicago suburbs. When I’m not hitting the books, I love hanging out with my friends, listening to music, and making tiktoks of Bates. I also write for the school paper and I am on the board of the Jewish Student Union. Fun fact: Rangeley was my AESOP trip when I was a first-year (so full circle)!! Can’t wait to see you all around campus this Fall :)

Rangeley Basecamping 3

Hey everybody! I’m Sarah Hughes (she/her), a member of the class of 2027. I’m on the women’s basketball team, and I will be leading Rangely base camping 3 with my teammate and friend Mya Hicks! I am super excited to hang out with and get to know the incoming class. When I’m not playing basketball, you can find me hanging out outside with my friends. I love to play spike ball and throw around a football or frisbee. On a rainy day, there’s nothing better than watching a good movie or tv show. Some of my favorites are “Crazy, Stupid, Love”, “Good Will Hunting”, and “One Tree Hill.” I’m from the Jersey Shore, so I spend a lot of time at the beach over the summer. I love to swim in the ocean and chill in the sun while listening to music. I’m looking forward to showing my campers the beauty of Maine while making awesome memories and creating meaningful relationships!

What’s up cats! My name is Mya Hicks (she/her) and I’m from Ann Arbor, Michigan. AESOP was one of my favorite memories from freshman year, and I can’t wait to do it again with my good friend and teammate Sarah Hughes! When it comes to being outside, I love sitting by the lake and taking short hikes. Swimming, beach volleyball, and reading/journaling are some of my favorite warm-weather activities, especially if ice cream and a good playlist are involved. During the school year, if I’m not playing basketball, I’ll probably be inside watching movies or going to try new restaurants with my friends. Getting to explore Maine has been a highlight of my first year, and even though I’m not a big nature girl, being here has started to change my mind. I’m looking forward to going on new adventures with our campers and hope to make lasting connections along the way!

Located in the mesmerizing wilderness of western Maine, Richardson Lake offers the best of both worlds when it comes to experiencing the outdoors. After a 5-mile paddle to your campsite, you will get camp set up and enjoy the beauty that Maine offers. This canoeing trip allows you to spend your days on the water and enjoy plenty of downtime at night. All the wilderness campsites have a fire ring, outhouse, and picnic table. This trip is perfect for anyone who wants to experience the picturesque natural landscape that Maine has to offer and spend time on the water.

• Evacuation Access Level: 4
• Backcountry
• Activity Level: High
• Amenities: Privy toilets
• Sleeping Arrangements: Camping in tents

Meet the leaders!

Richardson Canoeing 1

Maple is a rising senior with a major in Politics and a concentration in English literature. She is a trip leader in the Outing Club and is very excited to get back into the Maine wilderness after a semester abroad in Madrid, Spain!! She’s also involved with the school newspaper, orchestra, and club sailing team, and enjoys volunteering in the Lewiston elementary schools. Her favorite flavor of ice cream is black raspberry chip. Can’t wait to meet all of you and enjoy some days on the beautiful Maine water :))

Charlotte is a rising senior majoring in Chemistry with a concentration in The Ancient World. She is an avid outdoor enthusiast, spending much of her time in the summer hiking, fishing, swimming, and, of course, walking her dog. At Bates she is a member of the club skiing and sailing teams. She loves to read, cook with her family, but bake alone, and is just learning how to crochet. Charlotte is lactose intolerant but when she decides to eat ice cream her favorite flavor is moose tracks. So excited to meet everyone and spend some time floating and paddling on our lake!!

Richardson Canoeing 2

Hey, there! I’m Colby (he/him) and I’m from (Hopkinton) Massachusetts. Here at Bates, I’m studying physics and spending time outside as often as I can. Canoe camping is, in my (correct) opinion, the best version of camping, so I am HYPED to bring you all out to Richardson Lake. In my free time, you’ll find me hanging at commons with my friends, making music, or trying way too hard to make people laugh. My goal during AESOP is to, of course, give you all a GREAT time, cultivate bonds that last through the entirety of your time at Bates, and make your first few days/weeks/months an easy transition (with my excellent advise and the support system of our group). Also, it was “suggested” that I share my favorite animal and ice cream flavor: cow for both. Can’t wait to welcome you all to campus!

Hi everyone! My name is Sam Turtle (she/her) and I’m from Belmont CA, which for those of you not familiar with, it’s in the Bay Area/outside of San Francisco. I’m a senior Earth and Climate Science + Biochem double major, meaning I spend lots of time looking at rocks and nature and dabble in the sciences. On a similar note I’m president of the Earth to Bates club (which is super fun and I am 100% not doing self promo here but you should totally join) as well as co-President of the Asian student association. I’m super excited to get to go canoeing and spend some time outdoors camping before the year starts. I am also looking forward to introducing the incoming first years to bates and the community we have here! In my free time I enjoy reading, hiking, embroidering not very well, running, and of course hanging out with my friends in the L.L. Bean flagship store at midnight. My favorite gelato is Maine wild blueberry crisp from gelato fiasco. Favorite animal would have to be a pangolin.

Surf’s up!!! Prepare to shred and learn the basics of surfing! Maine is a great place to surf and this trip will introduce participants to everything that Maine surfing has to offer. AESOPers will be equipped with wetsuits and boards. Trained leaders will share their knowledge of surfing to help AESOPers learn the ins and outs of surfing. Camp nearby the beach with bathroom facilities and running water. Get ready for a trip full of surfing and beach games! No prior experience is required, so get stoked to ride some waves!

• Evacuation Access Level: 1
• Frontcountry
• Activity Level: High
• Amenities: Running water, showers and flush toilets
• Sleeping Arrangements: Camping in tents

Meet the leaders!

Surfing 1

My name’s Tommo and I’m from Perth, Australia. I study brains and dabble in computer science. I just spent the last year studying abroad in South Island New Zealand where I’ve become a keen rock climber. I’m terrified of wet jeans. If you see me with shoes on call the ambo. And I will never say no to ice cream. Stoked to meet all of yous and surf some of mother nature’s ol’ clear.

Hi bobkittens!!! My name is Jessie Bard, and I am from Westchester, New York, but chances are you will find me outside the country hanging with some penguins or scuba diving coral reefs. I spent my junior year abroad studying environmental studies in New Zealand and Cambodia. I love to ski, hike, read, and do photography of wildlife, glaciers, and ocean swells! At Bates, you will likely find me in my all-time favorite cafe, Le Ronj, chatting it up with my most amazing fellow batesies. I am so excited to lead the surf trip with my good pal, Tommo, and spread the love for Bates and Maine with all you surfer people.

Surfing 2

Hello AESOPers! My name is Neil Grover and I am a rising sophomore, planning on majoring in Music and Physics. I am from Avon, Connecticut, a small town about 25 minutes from Hartford. I am so excited to be leading Surfing 2 with my good friend MK, and for having the opportunity to share with you all the wonderful experience that is Maine surfing. On campus you can find me making music in Olin, getting an oat milk Chai at the Ronj, or practicing in Merrill (proud member of the track and field team!). I love music and recently I have been playing a lot of J Dilla, Cocteau Twins, Steely Dan, and Ecco2k. Can’t wait to meet you all and get to surf!

Hi guys! My name is MK Mylod and I am one of your AESOP leaders for Surfing 2 along with Neil :) I am from Milton, MA just South of Boston and I’m super excited to get to know you and surf! I am a rising sophomore majoring in Biochemistry and minoring in Dance and I am a part of the Merimanders, an a cappella group on campus. When I’m not in class, dance practice, or a cappella rehearsal, I love to spend time at the on-campus coffee shop, Le Ronj (iced matcha with oat milk and maple syrup always), or playing guitar. Can’t wait to meet you guys!!

Spend your days on campus working with the theater department to learn how to woodwork! When you aren’t working in the shop, explore campus and play games with your leaders and new classmates. You will leave with new friends and a new skill!

• Evacuation Access Level: 1
• Frontcountry
• Activity Level: Low
• Sleeping Arrangements: In your Bates room assignment on campus

Meet the leaders!

My name is Lily and I am from Cincinnati, Ohio. I am a senior this year; majoring in European Studies and whatnot. I love doing my radio show at the WRBC Station, hanging out with my friends, and playing music whenever I can. AESOP is going to be a blast! I am looking forward to meeting everybody and towards building something cool. See you soon!

My name is Becky Philips and I am going to be a senior at Bates. I am from San Francisco, California.Hello Everyone! My name is Becky Philips and I am from San Francisco, California. I am going to be a senior at Bates and my major is Politics! When I am not studying in Ladd Library, I am out on the quad basking in the sun, chilling with my friends, or grubbing in commons. I am sooo excited to be AESOP leader for the first-year class of 2028. I have a lot of energy, love exploring, and meeting new people and making new friends! Let’s get our hands dirty and build stuff! See you soon.

This trip, centered at Popham State Park, will combine surfing with the arts over the three days of AESOP. Relax on the beach and explore some of Maine’s natural beauty at Popham, while learning to knit on the beach and surf on the water! Designed to be a beginner’s experience for both of these activities. There are plenty of other activities as well, including nearby day hikes. Perfect for someone who wants to enjoy Maine’s natural landscape and learn something new without the high intensity of a backpacking trip.

• Evacuation Access Level: 2
• Frontcountry
• Activity Level: High
• Amenities: Running water, showers and flush toilets
• Sleeping Arrangements: Camping in tents

Meet the leaders!

Hi Friends! I will be trying to capture the essence of my phenomenal co-leader Lucy Whitelam in the following paragraph. Lucy Whitelam is the freaking man. She loves to dance, drink tea and emits the same vibe as cuddling up and reading a nice book in bed. She is the best darn knitter on campus and has proven time and again that she will not be bested. If you want to learn to knit and make your grandmother a wonderful gift she is the person for you! I once lost a beautiful hat she made me and it haunts me till this day. When she is not knitting her hips aren’t lying as she is a part of 2-beats, which is the student-led hip hop dance team. She dreams of dancing to Rihanna on top of the Alps and hopes to do so by the time she is 55. In terms of the ocean, Lucy has never seen a shark but she is not worried of potential encounters as she feels confident they would be reasonable if talked to. Although she has a strong relationship with the ocean her heart lies with Rocks. She once said that Rocks are the physical embodiment of time and its effects which prompted me to ponder as she often does. Simply put Lucy is my goat and I think everyone should run at the opportunity to be friends with her. WHICH YOU CAN! DO IT DO IT DO IT! Keep rocking, Matt

HEYO! Let me introduce my fabulous co-leader, the one, the only, Matt Riseman! Matt is a rising junior who’s from all over, but went to high school in Millburn, New Jersey (the glorious garden state). There are a lot of great things I could share about Matt, but you have all of AESOP to get to know us. A few key points- Matt spends his time absolutely tearing up the frisbee field (you already know that a frisbee or two will be joining us on the beach), as well as serving as the boss, sorry, general manager, of WRBC, Bates’ student-run radio station. I have no doubt that the tunes on this trip will be out-of-this-world. Matt always has a smile on his face, and you can count on him to bring the best vibes to any situation. There is no one on this campus who has a better sweater game than he, so definitely join this trip if you want the best tips and tricks to be stylin on campus. Matt may be the best body-surfer you will ever meet, and could probably beat a shark in a race if it came down to it. Whether shredding waves or making yarn take on various forms, you know that Matt will be down to do it all. Matt and I can’t wait to meet you and spend time hanging out on the beautiful beaches of Maine! Stay fabulous, Lucy