1. Can any UAA student participate in programs offered by the Office of Recreation and Activities (ORA)?

The UAA Department of Housing, Dining and Conference Services funds ORA, therefore the ORA activities are provided for the housing residents.  However there are select events that are open to all students such as open rock climbing at Alaska Rock Gym or disco roller-skating.  ORA provides numerous outdoors adventure trips during the academic year, mainly on weekends that are limited to ten students, which fill quickly by housing students.

2.  Do I need experience in the activity to participate?

All events and trips are geared toward the beginner level unless otherwise advertised.  Locations are selected with multiple skill levels in mind.  The experienced or inexperienced will have a great time.  Participants should have a moderate level of fitness or willing.

3. Do I have to own, rent or obtain the necessary gear to participate in the activity?

Nearly every trip has the technical gear provided.  Non-technical gear includes things like warm clothing, snow clothing, and camping stuff.  ORA does have some equipment for use on a first come basis.

4. Is food provided on overnight trips?

Yes, one great aspect of camping is eating.  Healthy food is prepared with nutrition in mind.  Days spent physically exerting oneself requires higher caloric intake.  Special dietary needs can be met if known in advance.  The Coordinator is an extremely good cook.

5. How safe are the trips?

Outdoor activities are inherently risky.  Every possible precaution is taken into consideration.  ORA operates under strict policies and procedures outlined by the UA statewide risk management council.  All leaders are highly skilled with multiple years of professional and personal experience in the activities they lead.  All lead instructors hold medical certifications of Wilderness First Responder or higher     (EMT, 1 and/or 2) and first aid and rescue kits are carried on every trip.  Besides medical certifications other leader certifications include swift water rescue, high angle rescue, and/or avalanche level 2.

6. What is the substance abuse policy?

All trips are alcohol, tobacco and drug free.  Students found in violation of this policy will be immediately removed at their expense.

7. Are ORA trips environmentally friendly?

Besides gas for vehicles, all practices are focused on maintaining the pristine quality of the Alaskan outdoors.  All trips practice the Leave No Trace ™ ethics of camping.

8. How much do these trips and activities cost?

Each trip or activity has a different price according to the costs and purpose.  Many activities are free of charge to students.  The overnight trips cost a nominal amount to help offset some costs associated with the trip.

9. How fun are the trips?

More fun than a barrel of monkeys careening down Niagara Falls,