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!

Leader photos and bios coming soon!

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!

Leader photos and bios coming soon!

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 Wiley and I’m a rising senior and also happen to be finishing my math major, with a minor in Digital and Computational Studies. If there’s one thing you should know about me, it’s probably that I will absolutely be packing enough apples to feed a small army (or one of me). When I’m not snacking my way through life, I love playing board games (and arguing about the rules), reusing the same 4 jokes until they stop being funny–and then continuing anyway–and spending time outside. I grew up in Upstate New York, where I spent a lot of time swimming and hiking, although I would like to think that my survival skills have improved since then. I’m looking forward to meeting you all, playing games, and seeing how long it takes before someone tells me to stop repeating the same joke. No promises though…

Hey guys! My name is Isabelle and I am a rising senior looking forward to finishing my Math major along with my Hispanic Studies and Physics minors. I grew up in the middle of Washington State (just off the PCT) and one of my passions is convincing everyone that it is a fabulous place to be. My other passions include most types of physical activity (not swimming), playing games (especially if I am good at them), and wearing my many down jackets (puffies). I would say I first found love for the outdoors in preschool when my friends and I would build fairy nests out of moss and twigs and such at the park, or when my parents let me ski in a snowsuit and tutu. It definitely did not come from my Dads mantra of ‘less talking more hiking’ or my brother’s passion of holding tree branches back until he could conveniently let them go and hit me in the face. That being said, I am so excited to meet you all and I promise not to do either of those to any of you (not including Wiley).

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!

Hey bobcats! My name is Ava and I’m so excited to welcome you to Bates! I’m a senior from Katonah, NY, majoring in Rhetoric, Film, and Screen Studies and minoring in Spanish. I love singing (with my a cappella group and at open mics), skiing with my friends, reading, and listening to music– my current favorite artists are Wilco, Hozier, and Gracie Abrams. Some more things about me are: I have a twin sister, I’ve directed a one-act play at Bates, and my favorite spot in Lewiston is Forage (they have the best breakfast sandwiches!) Emma and I also volunteer together at a local elementary school in our free time! We can’t wait to lead this trip together and meet you all in the fall!

Hi everyone! My name is Emma and I’m from Bethesda, Maryland. I can’t wait to make some art and chill with you guys!! I’m a senior Econ major and Philosophy minor. You can usually can find me tossing the frisbee with ColdFront, the Bates ultimate frisbee team, or lingering in commons. I also love to hike and camp around Maine, have movie marathons, and play lots of board games. I can’t wait to meet you all and enjoy the beautiful Maine weather!

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!

Hiya future batesies! My name is Jackie and I’m a senior French major & Education minor from New York City. I love all things art and music. My co-leader Megan and I are in a band here on campus called Blue Razz Sassafras. We are also both co-leaders of Bates Art Society. We are big enjoyers of chilling, listening to music, and doing art in the company of others. I love acrylic and watercolor painting, drawing, collaging and jewelry making. ArtSOP will be full of art-making both on and off-campus. Maine is beautiful in the summer, and we will surely embrace that by maximizing outdoor time. AESOP is such a special part of the Bates experience, and I would be thrilled to share it with you!

Hello incoming Bates artists, water colorers, scribblers, and art-admirers! I would like to introduce you to the chick with the funkiest earrings in all of Bates-land, Megan. Hailing from North Andover, MA, Megan has embarked on her academic journey to study History and Spanish. When she is not arting, you can find her rollerblading with Jackie on campus (when it’s warm out), playing harmonica, or telling everyone to follow her art account @grapedumdum on instagram and DM for art commissions (wink wink*). Jakeekoo and her have some awesome art activities planned for you darling doodlers!

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!

Leader photos and bios coming soon!

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!

Leader photos and bios coming soon!

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’ 3

HI CATS! My name is Clare and I am a rising senior from Berlin, CT. At school, I’m on the lacrosse team and I major in English and Politics. But beyond the basic stuff, I’m an avid podcast consumer and thoroughly enjoy reading. I struggle with being quiet, and strongly advocate for white milk. I’m a veteran Spartan racer and can’t stand using Microsoft Office. But most importantly… I love Maine! Dani and I are so excited to be AESOP leaders and help welcome you to Bates! This trip will TRULY consist of good times and tan lines. We can’t wait to hear all about YOU while we chill out on the beautiful beaches of “Vacationland” :)

HEY BOBKITTENS! I am Dani Adams, from JOB (basic I know…). However, I have slowly but surely become a year-round Mainer, spending my winters at Bates and summers on the beautiful southern Maine coast! Sounds like a dating profile (ew), but my favorite part about Maine are the outstanding sunsets and sunrises along the coast, and Clare and I are so excited to share that experience with y’all on Beach Chillin!!!! I am a Psychology major, Education minor and play on the Women’s Basketball team here at Bates. My Bates life also includes running, trying new bakeries and Commons creating. We are so excited to welcome you into the wonderful next 4 years at Bates!!!!

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!

Bigelow Range Backpacking 1 leader photos and bios coming soon!

Picture this: you find yourself traversing one of Maine’s most iconic ridgelines led by one of Bates’ most iconic duos. The better half of this duo is goes by the name Nathaniel. PAUSE Enough with the third person, I, Nathaniel, am super stoked to get to hang out with yall in the Bigelows this fall. I originally have traveled from the Garden State but have called Maine home for many years now. I study sociology and art history, but you don’t care about that. I am at least in the top 2,000 lovers of the outdoors at Bates. I love to surf, ski, climb, hike, you name it I’ll try it (no promises if I can do it). My sense of humor can best be described as missing in action, but do not fright my mad dance skills will bring life to our bigelow’s party. I was once described as “that weird guy who drives the boats” (I was a wakeboard instructor two summers ago). So if you like to get silly in the mountains you found the trip for you.

Hey crewwww! This is Lianna reporting from right next to Nathaniel right now. Despite Nathaniel’s beliefs I am the better half of the duo clearly; smarter, funnier, prettier, etc. I am so excited to meet all of you guys and can’t wait for the best trip ever. I am from the D.C. area (Bethesda, Maryland to be exact) and am a Biology Major and Gender Studies Minor. I am on the Bates Swim and Dive team, but also love to rock climb and have fun outdoors. I love music and would not say I am a singer exactly, but will probably hit a tune or two on our trip. I also love to cook and eat so would love to chat food with anyone who also feels that love. I come from a long line of outdoor enthusiasts, my grandpa sailed with Noah (on his arc, he took care of the animals). Honestly we both are really awesome and cool people so signing up for this trip will be worth your time. If you love the outdoors, but also love to laugh and have a chill time you should come join this boss journey.

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 have options to hike up mountains such as 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! You will have plenty of time for group-bonding activities complete with card games and smores after your daily hikes! 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 & 2 leader bios and photos coming soon!

Camden Basecamping 3

Hey bobcats! I’m Ella, and I’m thrilled to introduce you all to my AMAZING co-leader Isabel! Isabel is a rising senior majoring in history and theater. She calls both Colorado and Maine home (and spent this last semester in New Zealand!). At any given time, Isabel can be found running and hiking around the greater LA area, dazzling audiences in campus theater productions, updating her Goodreads and LetterBoxd, and writing poetry. Together we enjoy hunting down the best diners and swimming holes in the state of Maine – we’re so excited to share our findings with you on our AESOP trip!

What is UP bobkittens?! My name is Isabel, and I’m here to tell you all things Ella Nichol! Ella is a rising senior majoring in environmental studies and minoring in Spanish. She hails from Concord, Mass, but spent the last semester studying abroad in Peru (how awesome is that??). Up in Maine, you can find her running by the ‘scog, line dancing, discovering new eats, and rock climbing. As a team, we excel at spending way too much time in commons and frolicking in the great outdoors. We could not be more excited to meet ya’ll on AESOP!

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!

Leader photos and bios coming soon!

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!

Leader photos and bios coming soon!

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!

Leader photos and bios coming soon!

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 & 2 leader photos and bios coming soon!

Day Hiking 3

Hey guys, my name is Eli and I’m super excited to lead day hiking! I am a senior majoring in History and minoring in rhetoric. I’m from NY, but I love the outdoors and getting to explore the beauty of Maine has been one of the highlights of my time at Bates. In my free time I love to play basketball or spike ball, watch the Mets, and ski with my friends. If you like 70’s rock then you’re gonna have a lot of fun in our van rides. I can’t wait to go out and explore Maine with all of you!

Hi everyone!! I’m Marin, and I use she/her pronouns. I am SO excited to meet and welcome y’all to Bates! I’m a senior studying politics and Latin American studies. I grew up in New York, unfortunately not the city. The past year, I was sadly not on Bates campus ( the quad squirrels, puddle ducks, and Sunday Sundae were missed), however, I did get the amazing opportunity to study abroad in both South America and Europe! You will probably notice quickly I love talking about travel and food that I came across on my travels! With that, I truly missed the Bates community! Usually, if you don’t catch me romanticizing my walks in Quad and Alumni then you will for sure see me in Ladd Library hosting Tea club, or dancing in Merrill gym. I can’t wait to see you guys in the fall to have the BEST AESOP trip ever!!

Day Hiking 4 leader photos and bios coming soon!

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!

Hey y’all, my name’s Ben (he/him) and I’m a rising junior from Micanopy, Florida. I love doing all things active and am super excited to race up some walls with y’all! When I’m not in the pool at practice or in the classroom trying to be an academic weapon, you’ll likely find me trying to avoid injury on the basketball court (my other favorite sport). I’m a bit of a STEM fanatic and am working on my degree in biomedical engineering through Bates’ 3-2 engineering program. I’m a huge dog person and avid enjoyer of philosophical discussions—I can’t wait to meet you and to set off for what’s going to be an incredible trip!!

Hey all! My names Elena (she/her) and I’m so stoked to lead EVO Climbing with my Southern pal, Ben this fall! When Ben and I aren’t on the Tarbell pool deck, you can find me chompin’ away at Commons or yappin’ con mi amigos in Ladd. I’m a rising sophomore at Bates and an Environmental and Hispanic Studies enthusiast. I live 40 minutes down the road in Bath, Maine and cannot wait for you all to join Vacation-Land! Enjoy the rest of your summer, see you soon AESOPers!

Spend your first weekend at Bates getting to know the area you will call home for the next four years. Your leaders will take you to some Batesies favorite local spots. During this trip you might walk along the Androscoggin River, hang out in the park, play games on the quad, or get an ice cream from Dairy Joy. The opportunities are endless!

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

Meet the leaders!

Leader photos and bios coming soon!

Farthest Field Farm, located in Freeport, Maine, 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 acres of organic farmland consisting of veggie gardens, rolling fields, and farm animals. 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 and maybe even get lucky enough to make your own hot sauce! Running water and toilets are available at the farm.

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

Meet the leaders!

Leader photos and bios coming soon!

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!

Leader photos and bios coming soon!

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 Lake Canoeing 1

Hi Aesopers! My name is Gemma (she/her) and I’m from Santa Monica California. I am a senior majoring in Biology and minoring in education. In my free time, I enjoy reading (especially fantasy and science fiction) and talking about books on the WRBC radio show I host with two of my friends (tune in to Hot Girls Read!). I am part of the Cold Front frisbee team on campus and love to throw around discs. My favorite animals are sea turtles and I love mint chocolate chip ice cream (basic, I know). I am pumped to explore Flagstaff Lake with all of you!

Hey everyone! My name is Shenandoah Waugh but most people call me Shenny and I use they/them pronouns. I am originally from Lyons, Colorado and I LOVE being outside! On campus, I’m a Chemistry and German double major and European Studies minor. Aside from studying, you’ll also see me leading trips with the Bates Outing Club, tossing a frisbee with Cold Front, or playing guitar at JSU. Fun Fact – I’m also a Registered Maine Guide! This means I can identify a ton of different species and lead all types of outdoor trips. I love exploring different places in Maine, which is why I love AESOP! I’m so excited to meet all the new first years and canoe the majestic Flagstaff Lake!

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!

Leader photos and bios coming soon!

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!

Leader photos and bios coming soon!

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!

Habitat for Humanity 1

Hiiii!!! My name is Erin and I’m so excited to be a part of your AESOP experience! I’m a rising sophomore from Harding NJ, and my major is currently undecided, potentially economics or DCS. Additionally, I am on the swim team with my co-leader Matt! I really enjoy playing the guitar, reading, hanging out with friends, and going on long drives while blasting music. I’m so stoked to meet you all and have an awesome time exploring Maine while also giving back to the community!

Hey y’all!!! My name is Matt and I’m a rising senior this year double majoring in Psychology and Philosophy and am a distance swimmer on the swim team. I’m from central Jersey and love exploring everything Maine has to offer. I can’t wait to go on this adventure with all of you and Erin!!!!

Habitat for Humanity 2 leader photos and bios coming soon!

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!

Lakes Chillin’ 1 leader photos and bios coming soon!

Lakes Chillin’ 2 (sleeping on campus)

If I was given the chance to write a biography on Trinity, I would, and it still wouldn’t live up to the wonderful person she is. But it’ll start with something like this:
Trinity Poon is a rising senior from Sandwich, Massachusetts. Majoring in English and French, She has quite a way with words. To me, she is an OG friend, and I am so lucky to have her company for all of college— a companionship that I have the honor of sharing with you all. She is compassionate, understanding, and especially accommodating to the flaws of her fellow AESOP leader because I simply cannot stand writing about myself. She is an academic, whose intellectual prowess is humbling yet embracing. She is a staunch bastion of journalistic freedom and integrity, and you can spot the traces of her hard work all over the Bates Student— and hopefully soon on the New York Times (or other publications of such caliber). Under the name of “bounty”, she is a disc tosser, a quicker picker upper, for Cold Front, Bates’ Women’s, Non-Binary & Gender Non-Conforming Ultimate Frisbee Team. She has raised the bar of girlhood tremendously by claiming to be “just a girl” while also one of the strongest, most capable woman I know. Honest, intelligent, and funny is the trinity that makes Trinity. We are perhaps two of the most intense chillers, chillest tryhards at Bates, and we will stop at NOTHING to make these three days the best start to your college career.

Hellllooo AESOPers! You don’t know just how lucky you are to have an AESOP leader like Will, here, who would win gold for every event in the Chill Olympics. This extraordinary bobcat, however, is too humble to be able to write his own bio, so I have the pleasure of capturing his awesomeness for you. The first thing you should know is that Will, a rising senior from Shanghai, China, is the epitome of the liberal arts education, majoring in both Biology and English. If you’re looking for someone to talk cells or post-modern American fiction, Will is your guy. But, don’t let his academic prowess fool you: Will is also deeply knowledgeable on the South Park and Rick and Morty storylines and will not hesitate to make you watch his favorite cartoons. In between being a poet and a scholar, Will can be found on the Coram steps learning a new skateboard skill or in the gym doing whatever it is that he does there. Above all, Will’s favorite thing to do is probably to talk with people and make new friends— whether that’s over a Commons meal or hanging out on the beach with his AESOPers. Will couldn’t be more excited (seriously I have never seen him so giddy) to welcome you to campus and chill at some lakes!

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

Meet the leaders!

Lake Chillin 3 leader photos and bios coming soon!

Lake Chillin’ 4 (BIPOC Affinity)

Hey! I’m Ariya, and I’m going to be a senior at Bates. I am studying Chinese and Neuroscience, and I’m on the premed track. I love drawing, painting, and hanging out(hence the chillinnnn). AESOP has been a wonderful experience for me and helped me foster new friendships as well as meet lots of amazing people. Super excited to meet you all! Feel free to each out to me at atayal@bates.edu with any questions.

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 leader photos and bios coming soon!

Mooselookmeguntic Canoeing 2

What is up party people! Liz and I are super excited to be AESOP leaders this coming fall. I’m a rising senior from Reading, Massachusetts (#JOB!). I’m an Earth and Climate Sciences and Dance double major, thank you liberal arts college, and a passionate lover of rocking out in all forms. I am happiest when I am in or on a body of water, and I cannot wait to explore Mooselookmeguntic Lake with you all. Some rapid fire facts about me- I work at my family’s bookstore (@whitelambooks :)), I make a mean cheddar chive scone, and I have been abroad in New Zealand this semester. Our trip will be filled with card games and tea and joy and we are so pumped to get to know the class of ’29.

Hey there future Aesopers, I am beyond excited to be an Aesop leader this fall with my dear friend Lucy! I am a rising senior from Needham, MA, majoring in Politics and Dance (go dancing! everyone take a dance class I dare you). I love the outdoors especially when it includes a body of water and I am ecstatic to canoe through the Mooselookmeguntic waters with all of you lovely people. Some essential facts about me are I love to chat and snack, I build a mean campfire which we will gather round each night of AESOP, and nothing makes me happier than a glizzy,. Lucy and I are literally jumping for joy thinking about meeting all of you and having a grand old time up in Mooselookmeguntic Lake!

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!

Leader photos and bios coming soon!

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

Hi baby bobcats!! I’m Sarah (she/her) and I’m a senior 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, I am on the board of the Jewish Student Union, and I work for Bates Alumni with their social media. Portland is one of my favorite cities and I am so excited to show you the best spots! Can’t wait to see you all around campus this Fall :)

Hey everyone! I’m Lucy Green (she/her) from Southern California! On campus, I work for the Office of Admissions as a tour guide, serve as the managing editor of our student newspaper’s sports section, and volunteer with the Maine Lawyer Volunteer Program. During the Winter ’25 semester, I had the incredible opportunity to study abroad in Milan, Italy. In my free time, I love running, traveling, and spending time with friends. Can’t wait to meet you all, feel free to reach out with any questions lgreen2@bates.edu , or if you just want to say hi! go Cats!

Portland Exploration 2

Leader bios and photos coming 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 leader photos and bios coming soon!

Rangeley Basecamping 2

Hi everyone! My name is Mya, and I’m a senior majoring in politics. I am actually from Rangeley, so I CAN’T WAIT for all of us to explore together during this AESOP. My favorite outside activities are hiking, skiing, and getting out on the water, canoeing or kayaking! Some more about me is that I studied abroad in Milan, Italy, I am a secretary on the Student Government (BCSG), and I love the gym, music, hanging with friends, and most importantly BATES. Eloise and I were neighbors on the first floor of Rand Hall freshman year, and have been besties ever since! We can’t wait to tell you all about Bates, and start off your experiences as Bobcats with this AWESOME FUN SUPER COOL TRIP. I can’t wait to meet you all!!!

HEY GUYS! My name is Eloise Wyatt, and I am a senior majoring in history and politics. I am from the great state of New Jersey and can’t wait to go on this adventure with all of you. I’m gonna copy Mya and list my favorite things to do outside: skiing, hiking, and canoeing. I love to travel, waste time in commons, hang out with my friends, take photos, and explore Maine. More— I studied abroad in Prague last year, I might have already met you because I’m a tour guide, I have a dog named June, and I work in the Bates Advancement Office. Mya and I have been so excited about this AESOP forever and are wishing you a warm welcome to Bates! :)

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!

Leader photos and bios coming soon!

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 leader photos and bios coming soon!

Surfing 2

Hi! I am also Lexi (she/her) and I am a senior from Yarmouth Maine! I am studying biochemistry and education. I love sumo oranges, peanut butter and iced lattes. I am a part of Takenote- an amazing a cappella group here at Bates! I am so excited to lead the surf trip and spread love for Bates and Maine with all you surfer people on Lexi-Sop!

HI! I’m also Lexi (she/her) & I’m from the suburbs of NY and I’m soooo excited to meet you all!!! Aesop was one of my favorite parts of freshman year and I can’t wait to give you all that experience too. At Bates I study Psychology and have a GEC in film and media studies. I love hosting on the radio, making films, and exploring Maine! Full disclosure Lexi Inger is a much better surfer than I am BUT I will be the best cheerleader ever. Get ready for the best time ever—- YAY!!!

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!

Hey everyone! I’m Henry Ehrlich. I’m a senior here at Bates and am majoring in Economics with a minor in Anthropology. I also compete for the men’s golf team. I was born and raised in the beautiful state of Oregon and love spending time outdoors. In my free time, I enjoy cooking, honing my carpentry skills, operating agricultural machinery, and watching basketball. We can’t wait to meet you all and for you to begin your Bobcat experience!

Hi everyone! My name is Jack Margiloff, and I’m a senior from Rye, NY. A few fun facts about me: I studied abroad in Amsterdam last fall, I’m a member of the Bates Baseball team, and In my free time I love to ski. Henry and I are so excited to meet you all and create a fantastic environment to introduce you to Bates. Wishing you a great senior year—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!

What’s up AESOPers! My name is Kailer (pronounced Ky-ler) and I’m from San Francisco, California. I’ve been surfing for 4 years and I’m hyped to be leading “Wool and Waves”! A little bit about me: My favorite animal is a shark and my favorite color is green. I am on the swim team with my co-leader Taylor. I’m looking forward to having some fun in the sun and leading the best AESOP trip ever!

Hi AESOPers! My name is Taylor and I’m from Piedmont, California. I’m a rising sophomore and planning to major in Psychology. In my free time, you can find me at the pool since I’m a part of the swim team here at Bates! Otherwise, you can find me in Olin crafting artwork, sitting on the swing in the quad, watching Gossip Girl, or eating a Sunday Sundae. My favorite animal is a dog as I have a miniature schnauzer myself! I’m so excited to have fun with all of you and Kailer!