For some students, the classic college experiences are sometimes limited to courses that make their brains feel like they’re going to explode from stress and insomnia. But, with enrollment for Fresno State fall semester classes right around the corner, students have options that aren’t just another walk ”” or a hike ”” in the park.
If you’re a student looking for a course that will take you on an adventure, check out REC 86, Backpacking in the Sierra Mountains, taught by lecturer and E.D.G.E Challenge Course manager Alexandra Clifton. Through this course, students get a full hiking experience ”” and earn course credit ”” in California’s beautiful Sierra Nevada Mountains.
“Getting the unique experience to be outdoors, with no city lights or cell services, can be one of the most humbling opportunities,” Clifton said. “An off-campus trip like this allowsexposure to a new experience, builds lasting friendships and opens the doors for other new life adventures.”
Jumping on an opportunity to share her passion for the outdoors with Fresno State students, Clifton said she is most inspired to teach what she loves.
“There is no guarantee that a student will love what this class has to offer, but they will not know unless they try,” she said.
To Clifton, the Sierra Nevada Mountains are a playground right in Fresno’s backyard.
“People come from all over the world to see it,” Clifton said. “I find many people who live in Fresno have not had the opportunity to go.”
She said herbackground and knowledge in hiking comes ultimately from herthirst for adventure. She encourages students to take up the opportunity to enjoy hands-on classes that take course material from a mere idea to reality.
“Don’t be afraid to do something you have never done,” Clifton said. “It’s classes like that that create experiences and memories for a lifetime.”
Vanessa Rios, a Fresno State dietetics major, said she would like to get an opportunity to see the Sierras.
“I think an underrated part of Fresno is its location,” Rios said. “This class would give a student a glimpse of the world outside of their everyday surroundings. It would literally be a breath of fresh air in the Sierras.”
With backpacking, hiking and other physical activities involved, Rios said that, as a dietetics student, she endorses Clifton’s class and looks forward to taking the course in the near future.
“I had no idea this course existed,” Rios said. “I’ll definitely keep it in mind when I’m creating future classes and think everyone ”” if the chance is there ”” should take this course.”
Aside from REC 86, Clifton also teaches REC 106 and 75 — teambuilding classes offered at Fresno State’s E.D.G.E (Experientially Designed Group Effort) ropes course, right on campus between the Residence Dining Hall and the North Gym.
Kaitlyn Wardle, recreation administration major and current REC 86 student said she considers this course to be one of the best course offerings at Fresno State, because the class ultimately creates bonding experiences and special memories with people you’ll never forget.
“If you don’t know Alexandra, get to know her. She is an amazing and inspiring woman,” Wardle said. “She is one of the best teachers I have ever met. I am expecting a very educational, fun-filled and exciting trip.”
Fall semester class enrollment starts April 20.
