Throughout the years, Oregon State University has become a school known for its outdoorsy community. This is in large part thanks to the Adventure Leadership Institute.
“(ALI) is a nationally recognized program dedicated to leadership education, outdoor skill development and community building,” Brian Hustoles, director of marketing and communications for Student Experiences and Recreation, said in an email.
ALI provides opportunities for students looking to further their experience with the outdoors. They offer over 30 Physical Activity Courses, non-credit classes such as wilderness first aid and other professional certifications.
They also offer a leadership minor and certificate. “These programs combine coursework, hands-on experiences, and skill-building opportunities to develop leadership potential,” Hustoles said.
One of ALI’s most popular offerings is their group trips. These trips are guided by qualified individuals and offer a wide range of activities including backpacking, climbing and rafting.
Past trips include climbing at Smith Rock in Central Oregon and the Columns in Eugene, backpacking the McKenzie River Trail and car camping at the Oregon Coast.
“The outdoors serve as a platform for relationship building, skill acquisition and personal restoration, making ALI a unique resource for students seeking both personal and professional growth,” Hustoles said.
In Dixon Recreation Center, ALI has a gear rental shop where students can affordably rent any outdoor gear they may require. They stock gear for skiing, backpacking, mountaineering, paddling and many other activities.
Other on-campus facilities ALI has are their climbing centers. They have two: one in McAlexander Fieldhouse and the other in Dixon Recreation Center. Both centers have bouldering and top-rope options.
For students looking to become belay certified and take advantage of the top-rope walls, belay certification classes are held every day of the week in McAlexander Fieldhouse.
ALI also has a challenge course. This course suspends students in harnesses up to 30 feet in the air, taking them through a ropes course.
“(It) offers dynamic team-building experiences,” Hustoles said. “Programs are tailored to meet each group’s goals and follow a “Challenge by Choice” philosophy, allowing participants to engage at their own comfort level.”
Many nationally recognized certifications are offered by ALI. These include SOLO Wilderness Medicine, ACA White Water Rescue and PCIA Climbing Wall Instructor.
There are many ways that students can get involved with ALI. This includes visiting one of the climbing centers, enrolling in a PAC class or going on a group trip.
Their next group trip is a day hike at Silver Falls State Park on Nov. 15.
For more information about course offerings, opportunities to get involved or facility hours, visit the ALI website.