Frequently Asked Questions
What is BOLD?
Duke BOLD (Building Outdoor Leaders & Doers) is an experiential outdoor leadership organization run by and for Duke graduate students. Founded in 2010 by Andrew Dietrich (MEM/MBA, 2012) and several classmates, BOLD was created to offer students a different kind of leadership experience -- one that engages the mind and the body.
BOLD is in its 4th year of operations and has successfully completed trips to Ecuador, Mexico, and Peru
Who is BOLD?
As of 2014, we are 200 BOLDers strong. BOLD prides itself on diversity and in the 2013-2014 academic year, had participants representing almost all of the colleges - Fuqua School of Business, Nicholas Scool of the Environment, Pratt School of Engineering, Sanford School of Public Policy, and the Duke School of Nursing. We are hoping to broaden involvement even more this year and are very passionate that BOLD continues to be a group for anyone who is interested and not just adventurous outdoorsmen with a long list of conquered mountains who run ultramarathons for fun on the side. In addition, we are proud to have 60 alumni continuing to promote the BOLDx outdoor experience around the world.
What do you do?
BOLD aims to provide high-impact outdoor leadership experience that promotes personal transformation, interdependence, and a deep appreciation for the power and beauty of the natural world. Over the course of the year we will walk together through the four-phase experiential leadership model that includes a Solid Foundation, Cornerstone, Keystone and Capstone (learn more about these here). In short, we train mentally and physically to test ourselves as an individual, a team and a leader.
Who can join?
All graduate and professional students at Duke University are eligible for membership.
How do I join?
Come out to a Wednesday Workout (these usually start in the fall shortly after orientation week), attend the info sessions, sign up for the first Cornerstone event, or attend an informal Foundation course.
Who can do the expeditions?
There is a detailed application process to be accepted to be part of the expedition and a lengthy review process in which all the BOLD fellows meet and discuss each application. The Keystone Application will be available in the fall. Check out the Expedition page for eligibility.
How can I suggest an expedition idea?
Send us an email, post a comment on Facebook, Tweet us, or buy us a beer at the bar. And do it soon! BOLD fellows begin planning Keystone expeditions over the summer.
How can I lead an expedition?
In the spring we have a Capstone event, which is open to be led by any BOLDer in partnership with a BOLD Fellow. As long as it meets the requirements of a BOLD Expedition, you are open (and encouraged) to do anything. Check out the page about Capstone planning.