Learn how to get outdoors with the Outdoor Recreation Program

Mountains and Minds is a well-known motto at MSU, one that’s is thrown around quite a bit on campus. While the meaning of the ‘Minds’ bit of it is pretty obvious (seeing as MSU is first and foremost an academic institution) the ‘Mountains’ aspect is something pretty special. MSU is unique in its geography, with its close proximity to peaks, rivers, and other outdoor playgrounds. For some students, exploring these bits of nature can be daunting, but that's where the ASMSU Outdoor Recreation Program (ORP) comes in. 

Ty Atwater, who manages the outdoor program, shed some light on the idea behind the program, saying, “Outdoor Rec [sic] is all about engaging students of MSU, as well as faculty and staff, with being outside.”

The program facilitates different activities in a number of ways, such as offering clinics and classes to teach students about the outdoors.

 “We help students go from a position of being outdoor curious, maybe saying ‘I want to go out into the mountains but I don’t know how’ to a place where they feel comfortable doing that,” Atwater said. 

The ORP can also rent out gear to students for their own outdoor adventures. “Students will come down here because they don’t have a tent. They’ll have sleeping bags, coolers, but we don’t have a tent”. Atwater said. “We’ll facilitate that experience that these folks will remember for the rest of their lives.” 

He also emphasized student involvement within the program. Student employment opportunities are a part of the ORP’s offerings. 

Naomi deRidder, who has been working at the center for around a year, offered some insight into her experience, “I didn’t really expect to do this job. But it’s by far been my favorite part of college so far.” 

Annika Bucchin, a manager of the rental shop, agreed. “It’s been a really amazing time. It’s really daunting to try something new and I think it’s important that we educate and expose our students [to the outdoors],” she said.  

The opportunities for students in this area are sure to keep expanding, especially with the opening of the student wellness center in a few years. In the meantime, anyone interested in exploring the outdoors should check out the ORP.