Students take time to Venture Out

Georgia College & State University students do not have to travel far to participate in their favorite outdoor activities, thanks to the Venture Out program.

Venture Out is a program offered by Student Activities that provides recreational outdoor experiences for GC&SU students.

In addition to free on-campus clinics in various outdoor pursuits such as kayaking and tree climbing, Venture Out also offers weekend trips to give students the opportunity to try backpacking, rock climbing and whitewater rafting.

Venture Out also offers team building experiences to all recognized student organizations at no cost.

Coordinator for Intramural and Outdoor Programs Andy Hudgins said that Venture Out gives students a chance to challenge themselves in ways that they would not otherwise be able to.

“(Venture Out) gives them different experiences and opportunities to try new things,” Hudgins said.

Mary Jane Phillips, director of Counseling Services, said that participating in outdoor activities, like those offered by Venture Out, is a also a great way to help students cope with the stresses of college life.

“Physical activity is the single best stress management technique,” Phillips said. “When we’re physically active, we use up the stress chemicals that are hanging around in our bodies.”

Phillips also recognizes the therapeutic benefits of being outside and not spending so much time in the library.

“Our bodies have not caught up with the modern world,” Phillips said.

Davy Shaw, a senior outdoor education major, participates in many Venture Out clinics and outings.

“Venture Out activities are a great way to participate in outdoor activities at a low cost,” Shaw said. “It’s a good opportunity to practice the skills I’ve learned as an outdoor education major.”

Outdoor education majors are not the only students practicing their skills in Venture Out programs.

Courtney Blackmon, a sophomore early childhood education major, has participated in both the tree climbing and kayak roll clinics.

“I enjoyed it; it was fun,” Blackmon said. “I’d also like to do the hiking trips and other stuff that they’re going to do.”

Mark Armstrong, a senior information systems major, said he would like to get involved with Venture Out this semester.

“I like doing outdoor stuff like rafting and backpacking,” Armstrong said. “Venture Out is an opportunity to get involved in outdoor experiences inexpensively.”

Lindsey Hodges, a senior outdoor education major, is a Venture Out assistant.

“Venture Out provides students with the opportunity to participate in outdoor pursuits in a safe environment,” Hodges said.

Upcoming trips include whitewater rafting Sept. 16-18 on the Ocoee River in Tennessee, rock climbing at Mt. Yonah Oct. 21-23 and backpacking Nov. 18-20.

Posted by Colonnade Archives on Sep 16 2005. Filed under Sports. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0. You can leave a response or trackback to this entry