Program Information

Participating in First Flight is one of the best ways to start your college experience! You'll make new friends, learn about yourself, UW-La Crosse and have a blast!

There are three main components of the program; adventure education where you'll be placed in unique situations that teach responsibility and decision making, participate in an outdoor pursuit experience where you'll become familiar with local natural resources, campus recreation opportunities and team building activities, and goal setting strategies to successfully begin your college career.

Depending upon which trip you select the program will run for 6 days , of which 3 or 4 nights are spent in the field either canoeing on one of the rivers in our region, climbing at Devils Lake State Park, backpacking in the Porcupine Mountains in Michigan or  kayaking in the Apostle Islands. 

We have added one new programs this year; cycling.

While on campus First Flighter's will challenge themselves on our high and low ropes course, take night hikes in Hixon Forest, bike, blade or hike local trails, climb the REC's indoor climbing wall, explore campus, experience the dining services and be staying in the residence hall room they'll be living in for the upcoming year.

FORMAT

What the Week Looks Like
Day 1 -Sunday
All First Flight participants will begin the experience together with a welcome lunch, name game / low ropes activities and exploration of the local recreational resources.
Day 2 - Monday
Groups participate in high ropes team building activities and prep for their trips.
Days 3 & 4, 5 - Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday
All groups are in the field
Day 6- Friday
Groups return to campus and participate in activities and closing dinner.

Staffing
The program utilizes full time faculty/staff, student trip leaders and First Flight Alumni in all aspect of the program.

Mission
Help first year UW-L students transition into college.

Requirements
The program is open to all incoming UW-L students. No prior experience in any of the activities is required.

How to register
Registration has begun! There are limited spots available so sign up today.

Staff
The program is coordinated by two UW-L faculty and staff members; Thomas (T.J.) Mickschl, ESS Adventure Coordinator, and Nathan Barnhart, Assistant Director Recreational Sports.  Each trip is staffed by a UW-L faculty/staff member along with a student trip leader and First Flight alumni participant.

2013 Dates
Sunday August 25 and ending Friday August 30

Cost
Climbing at Devils Lake, WI
$395

Backpacking in the Porcupine Mountains, MI
FULL

Canoeing in the Driftless Area of WI
$395

Sea Kayaking in the Apostle Islands, WI
$550

Space is limited on each trip and registrations will be taken of a first come first serve basis

Payment
A non refundable $100 deposit is required to register for First Flight.  Checks can be mailed to 219 Mitchell Hall to reserve your spot. The remaining registration fees can be added to your Fall 2013 University bill or you may send in a check.

Make check payable to:
UW-L First Flight

Send check to:
UW-L First Flight
1725 State St.
219 Mitchell Hall
La Crosse, WI 54601

Benefits

  • Meet new friends
  • Build relationships with current faculty and staff members
  • Discover the beauty of Wisconsin
  • Learn about important campus resources
  • Interact with current students
  • Learn where to recreate locally
  • Learn skills and attitudes that improve your chance of success in college.
  • Move in early
  • Have fun