If a student organization is planning an off-campus trip, they are required to notify the Center for Student Engagement by emailing the Assistant Director of Student Involvement (studentorgs@mica.edu) at least two weeks in advance of their travel. The Center for Student Engagement can assist in student organizations in processing waivers and arranging travel. Whenever possible, the use of a MICA shuttle is preferred.
Waivers
All participants in off-campus travel organized by a student organization will be required to complete a waiver, regardless of transportation type. Waivers will be provided by the Center for Student Engagement. A staff member, or a student leader who has been trained by a staff member, will distribute waivers to students attending the event/trip, prior to boarding any transportation. Completed waivers must be returned to the Center for Student Engagement and will be on file for one year.
Transportation Options
MICA Shuttles
Shuttles (14-passenger or 25-passenger van) can be reserved through Transportation Services. The cost to reserve a shuttle varies depending on vehicle size and trip duration. Exact fees are listed on the Transportation Request Form, which must be completed and submitted to Transportation Services a MINIMUM OF TEN (10) business days in advance of the trip - no exceptions. Prior to submitting a Transportation Request Form, it must be reviewed and signed by the Assistant Director of Student Involvement.
Please note that shuttles are reserved on a first-come, first-serve basis, so it is possible that a requested trip may not be accommodated due to a lack of available vehicles. It is recommended that student organizations reserve transportation as early as possible.
Buses
For larger groups, school or charter buses can be reserved with the help of Transportation Services. The prices of these trips vary, and they are at the expense of your organization unless otherwise arranged. To request a quote and/or make a reservation for a bus, student organizations must complete and submit a Transportation Request Form to Transportation Services a MINIMUM OF TEN (10) business days in advance of the trip - no exceptions. Prior to submitting a Transportation Request Form, it must be reviewed and signed by the Assistant Director of Student Involvement.
Public Transportation
Baltimore offers many public transportation services that can be used for off-campus travel, depending on the location of the trip and/or in the event that a shuttle is unavailable. The MTA's Light Rail stops on campus, and MTA Subway service, Amtrak, MARC Train services are located nearby as well. In addition, the Charm City Circulator offers free service around the city. More information about public transportation can be found at the Visit Baltimore website.
Personal Vehicles & Carpooling
MICA discourages any and all carpooling, as well as the use of personal vehicles. Students who carpool do so with the understanding that MICA is not responsible or liable for participants. Students are advised that if they use their own personal transportation, the individual person can be held liable in the event of an incident or accident. If a student organization still chooses to carpool or use personal vehicles for an off-campus trip, participants must still complete a waiver prior to departure.