We’re at the period in the semester where our teachers have decided it’s time to kick things into overdrive, despite what we might have going on in our personal lives! With all of the madness, one can wonder, “Can I catch a break?” At this point we’re looking for a getaway of some kind. I recently went in a trip with CORE Outdoors here at Valdosta State, and I can honestly say that kayaking with them was one of the most relaxing and exciting things I’ve done this school year. This trip couldn’t have come at a better time, because I had a hectic week after that.
CORE, also known as the Center for Outdoor Recreational Experiences, is a place for VSU Students, faculty, and staff to learn about the outdoors, gain leadership skills, make new friends, and go on exciting outdoor adventures. They aim to lead at least one trip per month, and the trips are lead by well-trained staff, who have experience leading trips and advanced wilderness medical training. The trips may be one day, a weekend, or longer during school breaks to anywhere within driving distance of Valdosta.
If you want to go on a trip, it’s imperative that yout register at CORE Outdoors Office during daily afternoon working hours. Trips are open on a first-come, first-served basis and are usually limited to a certain number of participants. The minimum number will vary depending upon the trip; however, five or six are usually required for a trip to go. Sign up early to make sure your space is reserved!
The trips are fairly inexpensive, and what you pay covers transportation, food, and equipment rentals. What I loved most about going on this trip, aside from meeting new people and having a good time, was adhering to the “Leave No Trace” guidlines, which meant that we were to make sure that we cleaned up after ourselves, and if we saw any trash while on the trip we were to pick it up and put it in the trash.
The CORE Outdoors staff is composed of a whimsical and warm hearted group of people. They are always willing to help, and if you are not as experienced in certain types of outdoor activities, they will motivate you and make you feel comfortable when out of your comfort zone. They are always looking to dojust about any non-motorized, environmentally friendly outdoor activity, so let them know if there’s something you want to do, and sign up for a trip!
HCXO!