The REACH program at Slippery Rock University gives students the opportunity to climb a rock wall, ride a zipline or complete a high ropes course, all without leaving campus. And students like Katie Weiner are right there, 25 feet above the ground, facilitating the experiences that take education literally to a higher level.
Weiner, a junior early childhood and special education major from Levittown (Neshaminy HS), is part of the Campus Recreation student staff that runs the Outdoor Adventures programming, including the REACH program. She is unfazed by precarious heights.
“All my coworkers love being up high too, but we have people who come out to the course and think we’re crazy,” Weiner said.
The REACH program gives student groups like sports teams, clubs and classes the chance to step out of their comfort zone and try something new. The program promotes “challenge by choice,” pushing participants to focus on a growth mindset in a team setting. Located in the wooded area near the on-campus Ski Lodge and campground, the facilities for the REACH program include a three-story wooden structure, which features a climbing wall and more than 20 elements and obstacles that are secured and supported by several wooden utility poles.
“We talk to classes and other groups about the importance of communication, and what happens when you don’t have it,” she said. “We also show students organizations like the Special Olympics club what it was like to go around the course with a disability. It’s a unique opportunity at a unique location on campus.”
Weiner and the REACH staff arrive on campus a week before classes begin in August for training, led by Andy Loue, assistant director for facilities operations and outdoor programs in SRU’s Campus Recreation. Loue guides the facilitators through safety procedures, rescues, setups and even knot-tying.
These trainings set facilitators up for the situations they may face when running an event. Although they can handle the heights, participants may not feel the same.
“People are scared when they’re not in control,” Weiner said. “They have to put a lot of trust in us and in the equipment that we’re hooking them into, and that freaks people out.”
Weiner encourages participants to be brave and think positively.
“Ultimately, you know that you’re safe,” she said. “We’re not going to let you do something that’s not safe.”
The high ropes course is attracted Weiner to SRU when she toured the University before enrolling.
As a former Girl Scout, Weiner loved outdoor adventure experiences as a participant and facilitator. Weiner’s professors introduced her to Loue, and not long after, Weiner joined staff.
Teaching skills and leading games in this environment has given Weiner an advantage as she prepares for a career as a teacher.
“The hands-on experience I get from facilitating is so useful,” she said. “These are things that I can take with me—I use these same games with my summer camp students. It’s fun and silly, and it works for all ages.”
More information about the REACH and Outdoor Adventures programs is available on the Campus Recreation webpage.
