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Experiential Learning and Adventure Center

Tina Carter Thompson, Director
Brett Faulknor , Assistant Director
Mark Ceder, Outreach Coordinator
University Center, Room 136
(619) 260-4709
www.sandiego.edu/explore


Hours:

Monday-Friday 9:00 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.

Experiential Learning and Adventure Center offers:

Adventure Trips:
Experience exciting outdoor activities such as kayaking, canoeing, rock climbing, hiking, backpacking, surfing, skiing, snowboarding and camping (just to name a few). Participants experience new adventures through a structured environment that promotes learning and awareness of the outdoors. Varying in length from two hours to 10 days, trips are led by USD students, alumni and/or staff who have participated in our Guide Development Program. Explore the outdoors and try something new or increase your current skill level while making new friends who share your passion for the outdoors!

Rental Program:
Rent a variety of outdoor equipment such as tents, sleeping bags, kayaks, surfboards and stoves at a reduced rate.  Visit our website for a complete list of equipment and fees.  This program is a great way to get outdoors and try new activities without having to purchase costly equipment.

Retail Store:
Stop by to purchase accessories to complete your outdoor experience.  With competitive prices and a variety of items to choose from, our retail store is a great way to enhance your time spent outdoors. 

R.E.A.C.H. Teambuilding Program:
The R.E.A.C.H. program provides a variety of services tailored to meet your group’s goals and focus on the needs of individual members.  Our approach utilizes fun, unique problem solving challenges or outdoor activities to enhance group bonding and team building.  Activities may be combined with a meeting or customized trip.

 

Customized Trips:
These outings are  tailored for groups based on individual needs. Groups have the opportunity to custom design a trip based on specific group goals and dates.  Our staff will create a memorable experience for your entire group!  Applications for customized trips are located on our website.  Please submit requests a minimum of two weeks prior to the outing. 

Explore Residential Learning Community:
Get off campus!  Explore some of the best outdoor locations around San Diego and hang out with friends who like to kayak, climb, surf, and hike. The Explore RLC is open to first year students.  Members can participate in outings and receive discounts on adventure trips, equipment rentals, and retail items.

ECO-L.E.E.P.:
Keeping with the theme ‘Be Blue, Go Green’, Eco-L.E.E.P. offers interactive programs that allow participants the opportunity to understand and incorporate sustainable practices into their everyday life.

Ways To Get Involved:

Guide Development Program:
Learn the skills necessary to lead adventure trips as a guide.  In addition to learning new skills, participants will have the opportunity to meet new people, participate in and lead exciting trips and enjoy time in nature.  Visit our website or our office to see the training schedule or to learn more about becoming a guide. 

R.E.A.C.H. Facilitator:
Strong facilitation skills have become a key factor in today’s workforce and the R.E.A.C.H. program will provide you with the skills you need to succeed.  R.E.A.C.H. is open to individuals who are excited and willing to serve the USD community through activities including games, teambuilding programs, leadership training, and group processing.  Become a R.E.A.C.H. facilitator and receive training and an opportunity to work at a local challenge course.

Customer Service Staff:
Customer service staff members are paid work-study students  who provide customers with a wide range of services. Responsibilities include: trip registration, rental of outdoor equipment, preparing gear for trips, preparing marketing materials and database management. Staff members cultivate their career skills and build strong resumes in a fun environment. Contact the office regarding the availability of positions.