The Sophian

Issue date: 2/4/10 Section: Sports

With the usual mass of campus fliers last week, who really noticed the pink paper in our mailboxes advertising the Smith Outdoor Adventure Program? Around here, getting to the science quad during a typical Massachusetts blizzard is an adventure in itself - who needs to go off campus? According to program coordinator, Scott Johnson, we all do.

On any given day, Johnson can be found in his office, surrounded by posters, pamphlets and photos of every outdoor activity imaginable - from kayaking to rock climbing to snowshoeing, constructing a countless menu of activities to choose from. Or maybe he is up at the rock wall instructing, supporting and getting some climbing in himself. Or over at the boathouse, organizing gear for the next outing that he, assistant coordinator Katrina O'Brien, or any number of student leaders will be heading. This is all, of course, when he is not teaching exercise and sports studies courses in rock climbing and whitewater kayaking. Wherever he is, Johnson is all about getting stduents out of their rooms and into the outdoors for an awesome time.

The Adventure Program, currently in its 10th year, provides everything from independent gear rentals to classes, clinics and off-campus trips and functions as part of the athletic department. O'Brien, who also teaches in the ESS department and heads up the Spring Break trip to Utah every year, was brought on board a few years ago as the program grew and gained funding.

Outdoor adventuring is unique, Johnson explained. It allows someone to try something new, invigorating and challenging without the pressure of failure. Most of the activities offered in the program are welcoming to a variety of people and perfect for novices. They offer an opportunity to learn something new, get fit and get involved in student life. Additionally, college is the best time to get involved and develop lifelong habits for fitness and fun. Johnson also advocates and encourages student leadership and spends a good bit of time employing and training students to hone their skills and instruct and lead others.

Miranda Mickiewicz '10, an avid participant and leader in the program, loves the trips and activities she participates in and the friends she has made. "It's an awesome way to meet people with similar interests outside of your house and your classes," she said. "Everyone is really supportive and relaxed and just there to have a good time."

Mickiewicz says she had considered transferring her first year and the Spring Break trip "saved her." During the weeklong trek through the canyons of beautiful southern Utah, she got to know fellow students she still considers some of her best friends.

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