Will it be too difficult for me to participate in recruitment so far from home?

[PeppyGPhiB]

Echo much of what Vandal just said, plus I'll add that REI is also a great place to buy a bike if you don't already have one. With every bike purchase they also give you a credit for one of their bike maintenance classes, so you can learn how to fix any basic problems with your bike. The downtown store (flagship) has walking trails to test footwear, bike trails outside to test bikes, and a rain shower inside to test waterproof coats =)

Get a passport. I personally think it's a good idea for all Americans to have one, but especially anyone in a border state. Plus, let's get real, this must be mentioned since it's relevant for you: the drinking age in B.C. is 19, so you may meet people in college that want to go up there for a weekend, especially for skiing at Whistler.