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 become acquainted with other students, staff and campus by being placed in unique situations, being taught about 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 or kayaking in the Apostle Islands.

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 -Saturday
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 - Sunday
Groups participate in high ropes team building activities and prep for their trips.
Days 3 & 4, 5 - Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday
All groups are in the field
Day 6- Thursday
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; Ryan Olson, ESS Adventure Coordinator, and Nathan Barnhart, Assistant Director Recreational Sports.

2009 Dates
Saturday, August 29th - Thursday, September 3rd

Cost
Backpacking in the Porcupine Mountains, MI
$395

Canoeing in the Driftless Area
$395

Climbing at Deavils Lake, 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 $200 deposit is required to reserve your spot. The deposit and remaining registration fees can be added to your Fall 2009 University bill or you may send in a check.

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