VEGA Essential Info Packet

Transcription

1 VEGA Essential Info Packet Director s Note: Congratulations! On behalf of all the trip leaders and support staff, I would like to personally welcome you to VEGA Penn State s Wilderness Orientation Program. VEGA will prove to be an amazing and unique way to start your college experience. To ensure a successful and fun week, please take the time to read this packet, it is filled with useful information to aid you in preparing for your trip. Let us know if you have any questions, and get ready for an amazing week that will surely change how you see college! Best, Jen Emigh Essential Info Expedition Description Page 2 Health Form Page 3 Assumption of Risk Form Page 5 Special Use Risk Form Page 7 ATK Risk Form Page 9 VEGA Gear List Page 10 Additional Info Important s VEGA Sessions Travel Day August 13 Fall August Health & Assumption of Risk Forms: Due June 15 VEGA Checklist Read entire Essential Information Packet Complete Health History and Assumption of Risk forms Due June 15 Review Gear List and acquire all items Visit AURORA website for more information and FAQ s Like AURORA Facebook page in order to get updates and information leading up to your trip Pack your belongings and embark on your VEGA experience VEGA Menu Page 12 Additional Information Page 13 First Year Seminar Form Page 14 Contact Us Trip-Related Questions Jen Emigh AURORA Director jen.emigh@psu.edu Registration & Billing Questions Marie Taylor Registration Coordinator marietaylor@psu.edu By reaching out and being the ones who are willing to show people such as me, the skills and values that will make us successful, I believe in the AURORA experience as one that can usher change in to the world through the Penn State community. -AURORA Participant

2 VEGA Expedition Description Arrival On your VEGA travel day, you will fly into the Seattle-Tacoma International Airport. You need to arrive by 2:00 p.m. on August 13th. Our staff will be in the airport to meet you. It is extremely important that your flight arrives by 2:00 p.m. so we are able to transport the whole group to our basecamp and preparation area for the first night. You are responsible for bringing money for dinner on travel day. Also, be sure to bring plenty of snacks, we will have some back at camp but will not arrive until the evening. It is also important that you begin to hydrate on travel day. Try to drink at least 64oz on this day! Travel Arrangements You are responsible for making your own travel arrangements for your VEGA week. Here are the specifics you need to follow when booking your flights. You will need to fly into and out of Seattle-Tacoma International Airport. Travel Day/Arrival: August 13 th, 2017 Your flight needs to be scheduled to arrive by 2:00 p.m. PST Departure: August 18 th, 2017 Your flight needs to be scheduled to leave no earlier than 8:00 a.m. PST After booking your flight, please follow the link below and enter your itinerary information into our Google Doc. If you have any questions or concerns about booking your transportation please contact Jen Emigh, Program Director, at Once you arrive in the airport, you will contact our Program Manager for VEGA (contact details will be provided) for instructions on where to meet the group. Travel Itinerary Link Backpacking Although each VEGA expedition may vary, participants should expect that once they arrive to the airport in Washington they are part of the VEGA expedition for the next five days. Participants will spend the next four days and nights backpacking with your group. Each participant will be carrying a 40 to 50-pound pack that contains food, gear, and personal items for anywhere between two and seven miles a day on variable terrain. (Participants are encouraged to physically prepare before arriving.) During this time it IS possible for us to do an emergency evacuation for injuries incurred on the trail; however it is NOT possible to be evacuated because you no longer want to hike. Please keep this in mind and be sure that you are willing to commit to the entire VEGA week. During your week you will learn a great deal about yourself and others as you hike, camp, keep a journal, and explore. Some participants may have a great deal of experience in the backcountry; others may never have had a backcountry experience at all. Together you will learn from one another and your instructors the proper methods of environmentally conscious camping, including group cooking, tent placement, water purification, and backcountry hygiene. In addition, one can expect to learn map skills, natural history, and risk management. Additional Adventure Experience and Final Evening Following your backpacking adventure, you will spend a day sea kayaking to explore more of the Olympic Peninsula. You will spend that evening back at basecamp where you will clean and de-issue gear and have a hearty cookout. You will also wrap-up your VEGA experience with your group and prepare to depart in the morning. Conclusion & Departure On the final day of the course your leaders will transport you back to the airport where you will check in and go off on your separate ways to board your flight home. Please note that once you are back at the airport and checked in for your flight, the program is officially over and we are no longer responsible for the participants. You are on your own; this is because our staff cannot accompany each participant to their gate. But don t worry; your group will be back together soon once you arrive for your first day on Penn State s campus. VEGA 2

3 Due by June 15 AURORA 2017 Health History Please return this form to Marie Taylor, AURORA Registration Coordinator At Shaver's Creek Environmental Center 3400 Discovery Road, Petersburg, PA Please mark the session that you are enrolled for: ORION LEAP (July 31-August 4) ORION Summer (August 5-10) ORION Fall (August 14-18) POLARIS URSA VEGA RIGEL Name: Sex: Address: Phone: In case of emergency please notify: Name: Relation: Address: Phone: Family Physician: Address: Phone: Medical/Health Insurance Company: Phone: Policy #: Do you have a history of (please check): If yes, please describe. Add paper if necessary. Yes No If yes, please describe in detail Asthma (If yes, medical documentation is required for you to participate as this is a physically active program) Back problems Knee problems Diabetes Seizures/Convulsions Blood Conditions (hemophilia?) Heart Condition Other: Allergies: what is your allergy? (ie. bees stings, foods, medications, shellfish, iodine?) Severity of Allergy: Mild Moderate Severe Life Threatening How does Reaction Present Itself? (If you have an allergy that requires epinephrine, please be sure to bring your own Epi-pen) Height: Weight: Resting Pulse Rate: of most recent tetanus booster: Any Operations/Serious Injuries? Are you completely recovered? No of most recent Physical Exam: Yes If yes, please describe. Any Dietary Restrictions (including vegetarian)? No Yes If yes, please describe. Any Physical Limitations? No Yes If yes, please describe in detail. Are you taking any medications (including diet pills, etc)? No Yes If yes, please describe. VEGA 3

4 What is your experience level? I have never backpacked before (backpacking = carrying a full pack for at least one overnight). Novice I have backpacked once or twice in my life. Intermediate I have backpacked three to five times before. Advanced I have been on more than five backpacking trips. Do you have ANY condition that requires regular visits to a doctor? Please describe. Use additional paper if necessary. You will be carrying a lb. backpack over rough and sometimes steep terrain for 4-10 miles a day. Do you have ANY physical conditions that might be worsened or aggravated by this activity? Please describe: Any other physical, cognitive, sensory or emotional limitations of which you would like our staff to be aware of or that might require special accommodations? PERMISSION AND CONSENT I certify that this health history is correct. I hereby authorize a physician(s) selected by the AURORA Program, or staff at the University Health Services or the Emergency/Outpatient Department of the most appropriate hospital to provide such care that includes routine diagnostic procedures and medical treatment as necessary. I understand this consent is valid only during the stated dates of the AURORA Program. I give permission for the AURORA Program Staff to provide first aid. A photocopy of this authorization shall be considered as effective and valid as the original. Signature Signature of guardian if participant is not 18 years old PERMISSION TO PHOTOGRAPH (Optional) I give my permission to be photographed or videotaped while participating in the AURORA Program. I understand that the images will be used by AURORA to promote the program. Signature Signature of guardian if participant is not 18 years old ** If for religious reasons you cannot sign any part of this document, please contact ORION director for a legal waiver that must be signed for attendance. VEGA 4

5 Due by June 15 The Pennsylvania State University Acknowledgement and Assumption of Risks AURORA First-Year Orientation Program (KINES 089) Please review this document carefully before signing. All students/participants must sign this document. For participants under 18 years of age, parents or guardians must also sign. The AURORA program takes place in wild and remote settings. It is important that participants (and parent(s) of minor participants) understand the risks (also known as hazards or dangers) associated with AURORA adventure activities. AURORA makes reasonable efforts to manage the risks, but does not provide a guarantee of safety. Some, but not all of the activities, which may be mandatory or optional, scheduled or unscheduled, supervised or unsupervised as part of the AURORA program include: Travel and living in remote wilderness settings Cooking on a camp stove Using liquid fuel (white gas or denatured alcohol) stoves Transportation in 15-passenger vans Wilderness first aid and rescue, real and simulated Backpacking and camping in mountains Rock climbing Swiftwater canoeing Flatwater canoeing Involvement in teambuilding games and activities Some, but not all of the inherent or other risks of activities that participants may or will be exposed to include: Misjudgments by self, others, or by AURORA leaders Inappropriate conduct or negligence by self, others, or AURORA leaders Unpredictable weather Extreme cold and heat, sun, lightning, wind, rain, and snow Unmarked or obscured hazards Moving water in creeks and rivers, whitewater Difficult stream crossings Steep slopes, difficult terrain, downed trees Falling rocks and/or trees Sustained lifting, carrying, or hiking Improper hygiene Failure of equipment, despite reasonable maintenance Remote locations, hours from help Dangerous road conditions and transportation problems Falling down or slipping Animal hazards: stings, bites, poisoning, and blows (trauma) Other risks associated with adventure activities These and other activities, risks, hazards, and dangers can result in (for example): Falls, being struck, or colliding with objects or people Experiencing vehicle capsize or collision Drowning Becoming lost or disoriented Injuries due to heat, cold, altitude, or heavy exertion Illness: long- or short-term, gastrointestinal problems VEGA 5

6 These and other activities, risks, hazards, and dangers can result in (for example): Broken bones, wounds, cuts, burns Property damage or loss Mental/emotional trauma, temporary or permanent Other injury, damage, permanent disability, death, or loss I (participant and parent(s)/guardian(s) of a minor participant): Have read and understand the above stated information and all other AURORA program information received. Have carefully read, reviewed, completed, and signed the provided AURORA forms and paperwork and agree to abide by the terms of those documents. Know that AURORA staff is, and has been available, should I have questions regarding the nature and physical/mental demands of AURORA activities and risks associated with those activities. Understand that The Pennsylvania State University cannot assure the participants safety or eliminate associated risks, and that all participants share in the responsibility of their own safety. Understand that the information provided is not complete and that other unknown or unanticipated risks, events, and outcomes may exist and are possible. Represent that the participant is voluntarily participating, with knowledge of the risks, and can do so without causing harm to themselves or others. Assume and accept full responsibility in regard to all participants for the inherent or other risks (both known and unknown) of these activities and for any injury, damage, death, or other loss suffered by the participant and/or their parent(s) or guardian(s) resulting from those risks, and do hereby unconditionally release and hold harmless The Pennsylvania State University, its directors, officers, employees and agents from any and all liability in regards to said risks. Participants and parent(s) or guardian(s) of a minor participant agree: I have carefully and thoroughly read, understand, and voluntarily sign this two-page document and acknowledge that it shall be effective and binding upon me, my participating minor child, other family members, and my heirs, executors, and representatives. All participants and parent(s) or guardian(s) of any minor participants (those under 18 years of age) MUST sign below: Participant Signature Print Name Here Parent or Guardian Signature Print Name Here 2nd Parent or Guardian Signature Print Name Here VEGA 6

7 *** Due by June 15 SPECIAL USE PERMIT (Non-Profit) EXHIBIT 2 VISITOR S ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF RISKS In consideration of the services of Penn State University's freshmen orientation backpacking program their officers, agents, employees, and stockholders, and all other persons or entities associated with those businesses (hereinafter collectively referred to as VEGA I agree as follows: Although VEGA has taken reasonable steps to provide me with appropriate equipment and skilled guides so I can enjoy an activity for which I may not be skilled, VEGA has informed me this activity is not without risk. Certain risks are inherent in each activity and cannot be eliminated without destroying the unique character of the activity. These inherent risks are some of the same elements that contribute to the unique character of this activity and can be the cause of loss or damage to my equipment, or accidental injury, illness, or in extreme cases, permanent trauma or death. VEGA does not want to frighten me or reduce my enthusiasm for this activity, but believes it is important for me to know in advance what to expect and to be informed of the inherent risks. The following describes some, but not all, of those risks. Inappropriate conduct, misjudgment or negligence by self or others Unpredictable weather to include extreme cold and heat, sun, lightning, wind, rain, and snow Unmarked or obscured hazards to include falling rocks and/or trees Moving water in creeks and rivers, whitewater, tidal currents and waves Difficult stream crossings, steep slopes, difficult terrain, downed trees Falling down, slipping off, or blown from high elevation High altitude sickness Sustained lifting, carrying, or hiking Failure of equipment, despite reasonable maintenance Remote locations, hours from help Dangerous road conditions and transportation problems Animal hazards: stings, bites, poisoning, mauling, trampling, drowning, and blows(trauma) Other risks associated with adventure activities Falls, being struck, or colliding with objects or people Experiencing vehicle capsize or collision Drowning, entrapment, or becoming lost or disoriented Injuries due to heat, cold, altitude, submersion, or heavy exertion Illness: long- or short-term, gastrointestinal problems Broken bones, wounds, cuts, burns, dismemberment I am aware that VEGA entails risks of injury or death to any participant. I understand the description of these inherent risks is not complete and that other unknown or unanticipated inherent risks may result in injury or death. I agree to assume and accept full responsibility for the inherent risks identified herein and those inherent risks not specifically identified. My participation in this activity is purely voluntary, no one is forcing me to participate, and I elect to participate in spite of and with full knowledge of the inherent risks. I acknowledge that engaging in this activity may require a degree of skill and knowledge different than other activities and that I have responsibilities as a participant. I acknowledge that the staff of VEGA has been available to more fully explain to me the nature and physical demands of this activity and the inherent risks, hazards, and dangers associated with this activity. I certify that I am fully capable of participating in this activity. Therefore, I assume and accept full responsibility for myself, including all minor children in my care, custody, and control, for bodily injury, death or loss of personal property and expenses as a result of those inherent risks and dangers identified herein and those inherent risks and dangers not specifically identified, and, as a result of my negligence in participating in this activity. VEGA 7

8 I have carefully read, clearly understood and accepted the terms and conditions stated herein and acknowledge that this agreement shall be effective and binding upon myself, my heirs, assigns, personal representative and estate and for all members of my family, including minor children. Signature Under 18, signature of parent or guardian Signature VEGA 8

9 Due by June 15 Adventures Through Kayaking, Inc. VISITOR S ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF RISKS In consideration of the services of Adventures Through Kayaking, Inc., their officers, agents, employees, and stockholders, and all other persons or entities associated with those businesses (hereinafter collectively referred to as ATK I agree as follows: Although ATK has taken reasonable steps to provide me with appropriate equipment and skilled guides so I can enjoy an activity for which I may not be skilled, ATK has informed me this activity is not without risk. Certain risks are inherent in each activity and cannot be eliminated without destroying the unique character of the activity. These inherent risks are some of the same elements that contribute to the unique character of this activity and can be the cause of loss or damage to my equipment, or accidental injury, illness, or in extreme cases, permanent trauma or death. ATK does not want to frighten me or reduce my enthusiasm for this activity, but believes it is important for me to know in advance what to expect and to be informed of the inherent risks. The following describes some, but not all, of those risks. Illness, Injury, Death. I am aware that ATK entails risks of injury or death to any participant. I understand the description of these inherent risks is not complete and that other unknown or unanticipated inherent risks may result in injury or death. I agree to assume and accept full responsibility for the inherent risks identified herein and those inherent risks not specifically identified. My participation in this activity is purely voluntary, no one is forcing me to participate, and I elect to participate in spite of and with full knowledge of the inherent risks. I acknowledge that engaging in this activity may require a degree of skill and knowledge different than other activities and that I have responsibilities as a participant. I acknowledge that the staff of ATK has been available to more fully explain to me the nature and physical demands of this activity and the inherent risks, hazards, and dangers associated with this activity. I certify that I am fully capable of participating in this activity. Therefore, I assume and accept full responsibility for myself, including all minor children in my care, custody, and control, for bodily injury, death or loss of personal property and expenses as a result of those inherent risks and dangers identified herein and those inherent risks and dangers not specifically identified, and, as a result of my negligence in participating in this activity. I have carefully read, clearly understood and accepted the terms and conditions stated herein and acknowledge that this agreement shall be effective and binding upon myself, my heirs, assigns, personal representative and estate and for all members of my family, including minor children. Signature Printed Name Address City State/Zip Under 18, signature of parent or guardian Signature Printed Name VEGA 9

10 Gear List What should I bring? ESSENTIAL ITEMS (bring all of these items) Rain Jacket & Pants: 100% waterproof and seam-sealed Headlamp: Bring an extra set of batteries. The smaller and (Gore-Tex or equivalent). lighter the better! Mid-weight Fleece / Wool / Synthetic Layer: For those Water Bottle: At least one wide-mouth liter size (leak cool summer nights. (Summer evening temps can be as low proof) bottle (Nalgene, Klean Kanteen, etc.). Camelbacks as 35 F). (water bladders) 100 oz or more are highly recommended. A second bottle will be provided for you. Short-sleeved Shirt & Long-sleeved Shirt: One of each for warm & cool hiking days. Either all synthetic material or merino wool is recommended. NO COTTON! Cotton gets wet and heavy and will not dry. It also can cause chaffing while backpacking. No thin strap tank tops because your backpack will rub against your shoulders and make them sore. Hiking Conversion Pants: Loose fit nylon hiking or athletic style. (If you need to bring separate shorts/pants that is OK. No cotton or jeans!) Long Underwear: Synthetic or wool baselayer (pants/shirt). For use as camp clothing / sleep wear / extra layers under rain gear. Synthetic Underwear: Two to three changes should be sufficient. Bowl / Spoon/ Fork): Durable, plastic, lightweight (metal or ceramics are too heavy) a spork (combined spoon works well for a utensil. Bandana: Enough said. Hiking Boots (waterproof): The most important piece of equipment! One pair of sturdy boots with good ankle support, comfortable and fit properly. If you are buying new boots, give yourself a sufficient amount of time to break them in. Boots not broken-in cause blisters - which makes for a miserable trip. (See reverse for more information). Pocket Knife: One small, Swiss-style folding knife is sufficient. Don t buy one if you don t already have one. Mug: For coffee and tea on the trail Money: You will not need money aside from your personal travel days (airport food and drink) and quarters for the shower. However, pay attention to your arrival & departure time and plan accordingly. Sneakers/Water Shoes: One pair to wear around camp and/or one pair sufficient for kayaking and stream crossings (can be the same pair). No open-toed shoes while on the trail. Lightweight closed toed shoes for streams are helpful (crocs, water shoes, 5fingers) Sun Screen / Lip Balm / Bug Spray: Very small containers. Sun Protection factor (SPF) 15+. Mosquitoes are abundant. Gloves: Camp can get a little chilly, a good pair of light-midweight gloves are helpful. Socks: Four pairs. Socks should be made specifically for hiking (nylon, polyester, or wool). Do NOT bring cotton socks. Personal Stuff: Toothbrush, toothpaste (travel size), personal medications (inhaler for asthma, epi-pen for bee sting allergies, ibuprofen, Gold Bond, etc.). Females: Extra feminine supplies just in case. Beanie/Wool Hat: For damp cold nights. FINAL DAY Shower Supplies: Including towel, soap, shampoo, (any other toiletries), clean clothes (can be cotton), comfortable shoes/sandals, etc. Used for cookout on the last day. You will shower after backpacking/ kayaking for the cookout. You will NOT be carrying this on the trail with you. It will be stored while you are out on the trail and delivered to you upon return. You must pay for the showers at the campsite so bring a few quarters. OPTIONAL ITEMS (not required but you may like having some of these things) Rain Hat: Consider waterproofing your head (this is optional and based on preferences). If you choose not to bring a rain hat at least have a brimmed hat for sun protection. Small Book: For nighttime reading or to share with a friend. Camera: For all the awesome memories you are going to make! No smartphones please (Note: if you do bring this item make sure you have some way to keep it dry). ** Please DO NOT bring electronic items such as mp3 players, games, or cell phones. ** VEGA 10

11 Other Important Gear Information VEGA will provide all of the necessary group gear for the trip including: tents/tarps, first aid kits, maps/compass, stoves, cookware, journals, water purification systems, backpack, sleeping bag, sleeping pad, Gators, trekking pole, and great food! Before you venture out on our backpacking trips, an instructor will look over your gear to make sure that you are ready. You may bring your own personal gear if you would like; however leaders will determine if your equipment is appropriate for our program on the first day. We do have storage available for items you decide not to carry on the trail. Appalachian Ski & Outdoors is a local State College outdoor retailer. As a VEGA sponsor, the store offers a 10% discount to all VEGA participants as well as a great website to help you with gear selection. Go to and look for the VEGA symbol or stop by the store to find everything you need to be properly outfitted for VEGA. Your web discount code: AURORA17 Weather: Generally, Olympic National Park has summer temperatures in the 50 s to 70 s F but we have seen it all RAINY days, HOT days, and COLD days! Even on warm days, temperatures can be considerably cooler in the evenings, dropping as low as 35 F at night. The Pacific Northwest is known to be very rainy and damp, and in fact, Olympic National Park annually receives the most precipitation in the Lower 48 states. Since you can never be sure what the weather will be like, you need to bring a range of clothing for various conditions. By having a variety of layers of clothing you can adjust your layers to suit your activity level and the weather conditions. Clothing: (Excerpted from Rick Curtis The Backpacker s Field Manual) Cotton fabrics or cotton-blends absorb and retain water, and therefore will NOT keep you warm if they become wet. Also, it can be difficult to dry. For this reason you SHOULD NOT bring cotton clothes such as sweatshirts, sweatpants or jeans. We strongly encourage you to wear nylon, wool, polyester or other synthetic clothing. Wool and synthetic fleece fabrics don t absorb water so they keep you warm even if they get wet. Fleece also dries very quickly. A wool sweater or fleece jacket provides warmth on a cold evening. These are essential to your comfort on the trip! A combination of these fabrics creates a layering system. The inner layer keeps skin dry and comfortable. Synthetic t-shirts and shorts are lightweight and will dry quickly when wet from perspiration or from rain. The outer layer provides insulation and is usually a wool sweater or fleece jacket. You will wear this around camp at night. The shell layer protects you from wind and rain. A waterproof rain jacket is essential in case of bad weather. A seam-sealed, nylon rain jacket is lightweight, inexpensive, and works well. Waterproofbreathable fabrics like Gore-Tex are some of the best choices. For the head layer, bring a brimmed hat for sun and rain protection. At night, a wool or synthetic fleece hat can be helpful for warmth. The feet layer includes a wool/nylon-blend hiking sock. Since wool or synthetic material doesn t absorb water it passes the moisture from your foot outwards, keeping your foot drier. If your feet get damp, they get wrinkled and are more prone to blisters. Wearing synthetic or wool socks means that your socks will not absorb water and therefore will not be as likely to cause blisters. Hiking Boots: One pair of high-quality backpacking boots (consult a professional outfitter). Waterproof hiking boots should provide full ankle support. Boots should fit comfortably while wearing a synthetic/wool hiking sock. Above all, make sure that your boots are well broken-in before you arrive. Otherwise your feet will pay the price. We cannot emphasize this enough: non-broken-in boots inevitably will cause chafing and blisters! Remember, we will be on a tight schedule after your arrival in Seattle so it is imperative that you come equipped with the appropriate gear and clothing we will not have time to shop for anything you may have forgotten. If you have any question regarding your items or if you would like suggestions on purchases, please contact Jen Emigh, Program Director, at VEGA 11

12 VEGA Food The VEGA menu has been adapted and modified throughout the years the program has been running. Our expert staff has assembled an array of trail-friendly foods that are packed with energy and nutrition to fuel you throughout your VEGA experience. All food is provided by the program, however you are welcome to bring additional snacks if you so choose. Below is an overview of the menu for your VEGA week. VEGA Menu Travel Day Day 1 Trail Breakfast On your own Coffee Tea Oatmeal Bagel Granola Day 2 Trail Coffee Tea Oatmeal Bagel Granola Day 3 Trail Coffee Tea Oatmeal Bagel Granola Day 4 Adventure Day & Cookout Coffee Tea Oatmeal Bagel Granola Day 5 Final Day Stop on Way (bring $) Snacks On your own Snack Pack Snack Pack Snack Pack Snack Pack X Lunch On your own Flatbread Tortilla PB & J Tuna Pepperoni Cheese Hummus Dinner Stop on Way (bring $) Stir-Fry Broccoli Zucchini Onions Quinoa Canned Chicken Soy Sauce Hot Sauce Flatbread Tortilla PB & J Tuna Pepperoni Cheese Hummus Burritos Tortillas Green Pepper Rice Onion Black Beans Cheese Hot Sauce Flatbread Tortilla PB & J Tuna Pepperoni Cheese Humus Backcountry Risotto Rice Cream of Mushroom Soup Frozen Peas Frozen Corn Provided by Adventures Through Kayaking Cookout at Campsite X X ALLERGIES AND DIETARY RESTRICTIONS We are experienced in dealing with an array of food allergies and dietary restrictions. We can easily tweak our menus for vegetarians, gluten-free diets, and various food allergies. PLEASE be sure to make note of your restrictions on your Health Form so that we can make these tweaks. For food related questions please contact Drew at VEGA 12

13 Additional Information Leaders Your leaders for the VEGA program are as diverse as the group of students they will be leading. Some are current Penn State students and some are recent graduates, with degrees from nearly every field imaginable: think engineering to biochemistry to outdoor recreation. Many participated in one of our AURORA Outdoor Orientation Programs as incoming freshmen, which means they have been right where you are now. They have all gone through extensive training in many areas, including backpacking and first aid skills, Leave No Trace principles, group facilitation, and teambuilding. The common thread for this diverse group (our VEGA Family!) is that they all share a passion for the outdoors and for teaching and working with people. They all want to provide the best possible experience for you and help to ease your transition from high school to college to the best of their abilities. They will be your teacher, your mentor, and your friend, and they will be there for you in times of need throughout your Penn State career! Special Situations In the event of an emergency requiring parents to contact their son or daughter, please call the VEGA program director s personal cell phone at Please be aware that in some cases it may take several hours to transport a message, as participants will be out on the trail. Again, this number is for emergencies only. Physical Preparation VEGA is a physically demanding program as participants carry 40 to 50 pounds of weight on their backs for hours/days at a time. The trails in Olympic National Park are rocky, variable, sometimes steep, and rigorous. The best way to prepare for VEGA is to spend some time undertaking physical conditioning If you are used to sitting in a classroom all day, the best way to start is by walking and then increasing to activities such as running, hiking, swimming, and other cardiovascular activities that will help to get you in shape. Hiking boots are the most important piece of equipment that you will bring. Be sure the boots you have are truly made for hiking; they should be well broken in, sturdy, and fit well with some wiggle room. If you are buying new boots, be sure to work with your local outdoor retailer to ensure that you have the proper fit and correct boot for your feet. Blisters are a common complaint with VEGA participants. If your feet are sore on the trail, you will not be enjoying the program as much as you could be. Early Move-In An added benefit for VEGA participants is the opportunity to put your belongings (not electronics) into storage in the Housing area where you have your fall housing assignment. You should receive your fall housing assignment by the end of July. If you would like to move your belongings into storage, you will need to contact your assigned housing area and make an appointment. Storage availability is at the discretion of each housing office and may be available as early as August 8. Due to summer school, construction projects, and a very busy summer conference schedule there is high probability that you will NOT be able to store your belongings in your fall room assignment. An attempt will be made to provide an alternative storage location elsewhere in the building or respective Housing area but please note that early storage cannot be guaranteed. ALL questions related to storage must be directed to the appropriate Housing Office listed below, we have no control over this process and therefore are unable answer your specific storage questions. Pollock Halls: North Halls: West Halls: East Halls: South Halls: VEGA 13

14 First-Year Seminar Registration Form Our First-Year Seminar is an optional course opportunity, offered exclusively for AURORA first-year orientation program students at University Park Campus. Fall Semester RPTM credit This interactive and experiential course is designed to help you re-connect with and meet other AURORA participants and to help you acclimatize to the academic and social culture of Penn State University. Our objective is to help you engage with academic, social, and personal resources available at Penn State and in the community; and to help facilitate your transition to college life. Space is limited to 36 students so sign-up now for a great start to your fall semester. Class will meet twice a week for 9 weeks Mondays and Wednesdays, 1:25-2:15 pm August 23 October 25 Connections with Penn State Resources: Library Resources Health Center Police Services Career Services Campus Activities Service Learning Time Management Sustainability And more!! Instructor: Laurie McLaughlin For information about the course, please contact Laurie McLaughlin lfm1@psu.edu AURORA First-Year Seminar Registration Form RPTM 397 Please return this form to Marie Taylor by mail at: Shaver s Creek Environmental Center 3400 Discovery Rd Petersburg, PA Last Name First name MI Participating in which first-year orientation program Penn State ID ORION POLARIS URSA VEGA Phone Number address that you check often! VEGA 14