With the D. O. C.

(R. L. Frank, of Milwaukee, is one of themembers of the freshman class elected toCabin ancl Trail after a stiff seven months'competition. His impressions are interesting as a new-comer's reactions to theD. O. C.).

EVERY FRESHMAN who comes to Hanover develops, sooner or later, an interest in some extra-curricular activity. For some it's athletics; for some it's publications; for many of us it is the Outing Club. When that organization sent forth its call for heelers, a good number of us answered. Few knew just what the D.O.C. was, and most of us had the idea that we were joining some sort of glorified Boy Scout troop.

During the fall we were taken on trips all over the cabin chain—some of them were work trips; most of them were not. We became acquainted with the fellows running the organization. As soon as we had some idea of which end of the mountains was up, and as soon as we all began to know each other well, we took trips of our own. Then the real enjoyment began. There seemed to be nothing so pleasant as leaving Hanover after a good football game and getting to a cabin just in time for a good feed. And, after the dishes were washed, bull sessions had an added zest around a cozy fireplace. The next day a good climb or hike-provided plenty of exercise and at the same time one had that back-to-Nature feeling that comes with being out in the woods. Then a round of songs on the trip back to Hanover, followed by an off-the-trail supper, a hot shower, and so to bed.

After Christmas vacation the competition for Cabin and Trail officially began. The Carnival plans seemed very ambitious and, not having seen a carnival before, many of us were frankly sceptical of the whole performance and at times wondered what was the use of making such elaborate preparations just to please a few girls for one evening. But the enthusiasm of the workers swept all doubts away and the work was accomplished with plenty of time to spare. And when Carnival arrived, we found that just the thrill of having had a hand in making such a spectacle as Outdoor Evening fully compensated us for our work.

Now the year is nearly over. Short spring trips are taking the place of the winter expeditions and we are sitting back wondering what it is about the Outing Club that makes it such an organization. Perhaps it's because there are no "big shots" in it; no showing of authority. Perhaps it's the enthusiasm and appreciation shown for every undertaking. Perhaps it may be defined as the "mass production of a good time" that we have together. Perhaps it can't be expressed, but just is.