In nature, away from screens, daily routines, “comfort zones” and alongside soon-to-be-friends, the feelings of adventure, reduced stress, personal growth and discovery of holistic wellness await exploration. Helping students explore inner wellness through Outdoor Adventure Trips, is Scott Catucci G’21, associate director for outdoor adventure, esports and student development, and Julie DeLeo, certified therapeutic recreation specialist and assistant director for outdoor education.
“Trips provide opportunities for students to unwind and take time to be mindful during the week. Simply being outside has numerous wellness benefits,” says DeLeo.
When explored through a student-focused lens, Outdoor Adventure Trips encompass the Barnes Center at The Arch Dimensions of Wellness, with an emphasis on Physical Wellness, Emotional Wellness, Social Wellness, Intellectual Wellness and Environmental Wellness.
Outdoor Adventure Trip experiences are unique for each student and throughout each trip. “We meet students where they are and support growth through experiential learning. At the foundation of each Outdoor Adventure Trip are outcomes that can support health and wellness for a lifetime,” says Catucci.
The team shares a passion for opening the outdoors to all and encouraging students to step out of comfort zones. Efforts to increase access include the following:
On average throughout an academic year, a little over 100 student-focused Outdoor Adventure Trips are hosted. The team emphasizes that there is something for everyone.
Updated at the start of each semester, available trips are listed on the Outdoor Adventure section of the Wellness Portal. Additional user details are available on the Barnes Center at The Arch Wellness Portal Instructional webpage.
Students are invited to register for the remaining fall trips and be on the lookout for spring trip registration opening soon!
Students wanting to learn more about what trips will entail and if they will be comfortable are encouraged to call 315.443.8000 or email BarnesCenter@syr.edu to speak with an Outdoor Education professional.
Through a student-focused lens of integrated health and wellness, this series explores a variety of Barnes Center at The Arch resources and services. In the pursuit of enhancing the student experience, topics empower faculty, staff, students, families and supporters as catalysts of health and wellness within their daily interactions.
