Outdoor Programs now hiring student volunteer trip leaders

Outdoor Programs has begun its hiring process to begin preparations for trips during the 2016-2017 school year at Utah State University. Applicants may apply online through the Outdoor Programs’ website and will be selected through an interview process directed by the trips program coordinators, Greg Davis and Dan Galliher.

Trip leaders are students at Utah State who voluntarily plan and supervise outdoor activities for their fellow students through Outdoor Programs. The leaders are responsible to plan transportation when applicable, equipment rentals and ensure the safety of the group they direct. The trips are geared to help beginners learn to enjoy new activities and meet friends who share a love for the outdoors.

Trips range in length from afternoons up Green Canyon or Logan Canyon to weekend trips in various areas around the state. Generally, about 20 to 30 trips are planned a year.

Each leader is responsible to plan or help direct at least one overnight trip and two day trips. Trip leaders are also required to attend Wednesday night meetings where they discuss new policies, procedures and learn new skills.

Certifications like swift water rescue and wilderness medical training are preferred for applicants but training is also available to applicants without the certifications.

“To sum it up in two words, we’re looking for desire and passion,” Davis said. “You don’t have to have a lot of experience, just need to love the outdoors and be willing to learn. The main focus is trips by the students, for the students.”

Connor Maloney got involved with Outdoor Programs four years ago when he moved to Logan from Salt Lake City. He was introduced to Outdoor Programs at Day on the Quad, a yearly event at Utah State where various local businesses and school programs or clubs can promote their products or services to students.

“I wanted to get involved,” Maloney said. “Outdoor Programs seemed like the perfect way to do so since I love being outside.”

Now, as the most experienced trip leader, Maloney has been on a variety of trips.

“It’s been priceless,” Maloney said. “I’ve progressed as a leader and my outdoor skills have also progressed.”

Bailey Dunn became a trip leader most recently in the fall. She was first introduced to Outdoor Programs when she decided to go on a trip with some friends. Dunn is one of the newest trip leaders.

“Helping others learn to get outdoors safely was something I was interested in,” Dunn said. “That’s what motivated me to get involved and become a trip leader.”

Some of Dunn’s favorite trips this year included rock climbing trips in Logan Canyon, rafting trips in Moab, backcountry trips, and snow shoe hikes.

“Outdoor Programs is your peers leading you,” Dunn said. “So get involved. If it’s not as a leader, get involved with the trips. You won’t regret it. I wish I had more time. There’s never enough for all the trips I want.”

Kipp Zubeck, from Delta, moved to Logan as a freshman in the fall. Zubeck participated in a hike conducted by several trip leaders.

“It was really fun because I met a lot of people,” Zubeck said. “All the leaders were really cool. They really seemed to know a lot about the area which was nice since I didn’t.”

Applications will be accepted until all positions are filled.

“Take a risk and apply,” said Dan Galliher, a program coordinator. “If you love the outdoors and want to help other enjoy them as well, we want you on our team.”