What are the estimated departure and arrival dates and times?

We will be checking students in at the Norris University Center between 9AM and 12PM on Friday, September 11th, and departing from Evanston shortly after. Buses will be returning to Northwestern Tuesday, September 15th by about 12PM in the Arts Circle Drive outside of Norris. Parents should meet us in the Arts Circle Drive.

How should students coordinate with parents about move-in?

All students moving into dorms and residential colleges will be asked to sign up for a move-in time. Sign up for a time after 12PM and parents can meet them when they return. Some parents choose to arrive in Evanston with their son or daughter before the trip, and some choose to meet at Northwestern on the 15th. Parents please keep in mind that even if you are here before your child returns there is no guarantee you will be able to move your son or daughter in before their return.

What should students do with extra luggage while we are gone on the trip?

If students are planning on brining their luggage to move-in to their dorms to CATalyst with them we will have some storage space available. If you have alternate means of storage available to you, we would advise you to use those as our space is limited.

How will I keep up with important information about my child while they are away on the trip?

Both co-chairs as well as the program’s faculty advisor will be available by phone throughout the trip. The area where we will be will have cell phone service, however participants are asked not to carry their cell phones on them during our scheduled activities. In addition, we will keep you posted via blog with any important information (i.e. safe arrival, delays, etc.).

Who will be facilitating?

Nine upperclassmen counselors and two senior co-chairs who have all received at least one quarter of specialized leadership training for the program, as well as a university-employed faculty advisor with advanced degrees.  

For other orientation questions see: www.northwestern.edu/orientation

What type of supervision is there on CATalyst?

While 11 upperclassmen counselors lead the program activities, a Student Affairs Professional from the Center for Student Involvement (CSI) will be present for the entirety of the program. Additionally, staff members from the Adventure Center supervise the ropes course activities.

What are the expectations of attendee behavior?

Alcohol and illegal drugs will not be tolerated during CATalyst.  Participants who fail to abide by program rules will be sent home at their own expense without exception. 

Where will we be eating?

Included in the program cost are all meals and snacks save lunch on the day of arrival. Meals are served in a camp-like mess hall, buffet style. Snacks will also be available throughout the program.

How do I get to campus?

Chicago has two area airports, Midway and O’Hare. O’Hare is fairly closer and requires a cheaper cab fare. The Chicago ‘El’ also runs from both of these airports to Evanston. However, one should note that the ‘El’ ride is authentically Chicago and can take up to two hours to get from the airport to campus. The PACE bus system also offers a bus that leaves from O’Hare and arrives at the Davis Street ‘El’ stop in downtown Evanston. This bus is called the Kiss-N-Fly and is route #250.

If arriving via train to Chicago, taxis or public transportation can get you to campus in Evanston. Please use the link below to explore the various methods of getting to campus.

Further information on getting to campus (driving, flying, training, etc.) can be found at: http://www.northwestern.edu/visiting/.

How do I get my things to campus?

 Many parents choose to meet their students back on campus when they return from CATalyst to assist with move-in day. It can also be convenient to ship your things directly to your room on campus. Also, storing things at other locations (with relatives, short-term storage, etc.) can be helpful during CATalyst. Extremely limited storage is available for attendees who cannot find alternative means for storing things during the program.

For more on shipping your stuff to campus:
http://www.northwestern.edu/orientation/wildcatwelcome/before/shipping.html

What should I pack?

A suggested packing list is available here. Please refrain from bringing valuables as we cannot be responsible for lost personal items.

Who do I contact in case of emergency during CATalyst?

In case of emergency please contact the Center for Student Involvement by calling (847) 491-2350.