Student Life
The Department of Student Life offers a variety of programs to help students build the leadership skills needed to safely lead outdoor excursions. Learn more about our offerings below!

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Program Offerings

GEAR (Global Experiences in Adventure Recreation)

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What is GEAR? 

Global Experiences in Adventure Recreation (GEAR) is an 80-hour hands-on outdoor leadership course with a focus on a specific adventure recreation activity in an international setting. In 2026, the activity was Nordic ski touring in the Chic-Choc Mountains, Quebec Canada. 

GEAR is a gateway to becoming an Adventure TREK leader and other paid leadership opportunities through the Department of Student Life's Outdoor Programs. 

Unlike LEAP, GEAR has a $450 fee associated to cover the additional costs of the activity and operating internationally. Prior experience in the activity is required to participate, though the required experience is attainable here at UVM. Additionally, a valid passport is required for participation 

Learning Outcomes

You will learn about risk management, group leadership, camping, teamwork, navigation, communication, and critical thinking. 

Dates

Class SessionsExpedition Dates

Coming soon!

Coming soon!

Application Details

Opens October 7, 2026 

Closes October 19, 2026 

Interview Dates: 

  • October 26 & 28 

  • November 2 & 4

LEAP (Leadership Experiences in Adventure Programming)

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What is LEAP? 

Leadership Experiences in Adventure Programming (LEAP) is an 80-hour hands-on outdoor leadership course. The natural environment of the Northeast is our classroom to develop your skills in group leadership, camping, teamwork, navigation, communication, and critical thinking. 

LEAP is a gateway to becoming an Adventure TREK leader and leading other paid opportunities through the Department of Student Life's Outdoor Programs. 

We encourage anyone keen to engage in outdoor leadership here at UVM to sign up for LEAP, regardless of previous experience, identity, or background. No experience (or personal outdoor equipment) required!  

Learning Outcomes

You will learn group risk management leadership, camping, teamwork, navigation, communication, and critical thinking. 

Dates

Class SessionsExpedition Dates

Coming soon!

Coming soon!

Application Details

Opens October 7, 2026 

Closes December 4, 2026 

Interviews Dates: 

  • February 2 - 5 , 2027

  • February 9 - 12, 2027

What our programs focus on

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Specific learning outcomes of each program are outlined above, but in general all of our programs work to help participants develop skills in the following areas: 

Leadership

  • Create a shared vision of success
  • Motivate oneself through adverse conditions to accomplish the shared vision
  • Inspire, motivate, and persuade others through adverse conditions to accomplish the shared vision
  • Lead through example – confidence, vulnerability & a positive attitude

Communication

  • Small group and 1:1 active listening
  • Clearly communicate what the group should expect from the day or activity and what part you need them to play
  • Employ a variety of communication styles to effectively teach and motivate the group.
  • Communicate in a manner that values the diversity of experiences and backgrounds within the group

Teamwork

  • Facilitate conversations within the group to increase understanding
  • Gain the trust of your co-leader and group
  • Develop trust within the group
  • Effectively collaborate with the group utilizing each individuals’ strengths

Critical Thinking

  • Work to understand discrete tasks as part of a larger project
  • Use Risk Management Theory to anticipate issues and needs, and have solutions when the unexpected occurs.
  • Understand the gaps in your understanding of a system to know when your own judgement is sound and when you need the input of others.

Participant Testimonials

Have questions?

Have questions? 

If you have questions that aren't answered above, please reach out to us at outdoorprograms@uvm.edu or 802-656-2060 so we can assist!