MTrek 2022 Incoming MBA1 Info Session Recording (5/1/2022)
MTrek 2022 MBA2 Leader Info Session 2.0 Recording (4/22/2022)
MTrek 2022 MBA2 Leader Info Session 1.0 Recording (3/13/2022)
What is MTrek?
MTrek is an opportunity for incoming MBA1s to connect with their fellow classmates as well as MBA2 leaders in an exciting destination before the school year officially starts. This year, we’re reviving the MTrek tradition of pre-pandemic years by sending teams of incoming MBA1s and MBA2s around the country and world.
Led by 6-8 MBA2s, groups of 10-12 MBA1s will hit the road together for a roughly week-long adventure trek. 2022 Trek locations range from Amsterdam and Belize to Marrakesh and SoCal. Each trek will have both pre-planned activities and free time for the group to bond, have fun, and make memories before the start of classes.
When is MTrek?
MTrek 2022 will take place from August 20th-25th 2022.
When do classes begin?
Classes begin on Aug. 29th. You are expected to attend classes and will not be excused from the first day if you choose to attend MTrek.
When is orientation?
MBAPO will run orientation will be from Aug 15-19th and on the afternoon of Aug. 26th.
How do I sign-up?
For incoming MBA1s there will be a sign-up period in May 2022 (for R1/R2 admits) and June 2022 (for R3 admits) where you’ll be given the opportunity to rank your top trek locations. From there, once your deposit is paid, you’ll be assigned a trek based on your preferences. Note that we will not place anyone on a trek that they did not rank.
There will be a similar sign-up process as mentioned above for the Class of 2023 based on availability in late April 2022.
Who pays for/how much is MTrek?
Each traveller is expected to pay for all individual costs associated with their trek (i.e. – the quoted package cost price, airfare, trip insurance, as well as incidental purchases).
Wait… so who plans these treks?
BSchool Travel is our travel agency planning trek itineraries and logistics. Founded by two Michigan Ross FTMBA alums, BSchool Travel specializes in offering top-tier global travel opportunities to business schools across the country. BSchool Travel sets the quoted package cost for each trek.
What is/is not included in the package cost price of each trek?
The quoted package cost of each trek will include all activities mentioned in the formal itinerary, transportation to/from said activities, a few meals, hotel accommodations throughout, a local tour coordinator/guide and a 24/7 operations/emergency contact team.
Flights to the destination, international airport departure tax, any visas required, services not mentioned in the itinerary, late check out at hotels, meals and drinks not mentioned in the itinerary, tips for guides and drivers, expenditures of personal nature, personal insurance, optional activities, arrival and departure transfers, etc. are not included in the package cost of each trek.
How does the payment process work?
All payments are made directly to BSchool Travel.
Each traveller will be expected to pay a non-refundable $500 deposit. Deposits deadlines will be communicated based on class year and admission decision dates. While deposits are non-refundable they are transferable between treks – if any changes/shuffling needs to happen.
The full package cost of each trek will be due by mid-summer 2022.
What happens if I miss a payment deadline?
Each situation will be assessed individually. Reach out to the MTrek Board at: MTrekBoard@umich.edu
Are partners welcome?
Yes! Partners are welcome on most treks. See each treks’ details as to whether partners are welcome (i.e. – Partner’s Trek: Yes/No).
Should I purchase trip insurance?
Yes, travel insurance is strongly encouraged as unforeseen circumstances happen all the time. Our travel agency recommends purchasing the student protection plan insurance through AIG using the link here. That said, people can purchase any insurance plan they feel comfortable with.
I think I may need help securing a visa to a set destination?
Not a problem. Our travel agency partners with CIBT who specializes in visa processing. Note that said service is offered for an additional fee.
What is Mystery Trek?
Mystery Trek is a long, long, longstanding Ross/MTrek tradition. Each year a self-selecting group of MBA1s heads out to an unknown destination with their MBA2 trek leaders (don’t worry, they know where… maybe…). In years past, airfare was bundled into the package cost of the trek to keep the location a true mystery. MBA2 trek leaders will provide a packing list and maybe a few hints along the way. Note that for 2022, the Mystery Trek will not require any additional visa requirements – so both domestic and international students are encouraged and welcome to include in their rankings.
What about COVID…
After one year of having no treks (2020) and a year at a campsite in Pennsylvania (2021), we’re beyond excited to send folks across the country and globe once again. With that, the MTrek team is continuously monitoring the COVID-19 situation. The harsh reality is that pandemic-related restrictions continue to change and evolve around the world. (Note this is why some locations just aren’t a 2022 reality). As of April 2022, we’ve curated a list of treks we’re confident we’ll be able to see happen come August 2022.
We’re working under the assumption that most locations will have some sort of COVID entry/exit protocol in place come August. Each trek team will be given specific information regarding their destination’s specific requirements.
With all this said, the big asterisk on everything is that circumstances may change. Our team, and MBA2 trek leaders, have contingency plans in place.
If you have any additional questions, please reach out to MTrekBoard@umich.edu