Leader Development
Leader Development Program
CSUSB Outdoors is committed to developing quality Outdoor Leaders with the skills and experience needed to lead others in outdoor adventure activities. Our trips are lead by volunteers who enjoy sharing their enthusiasm for the outdoors with first timers and experienced outdoors people alike. Some of our leaderÕs responsibilities include managing risk, teaching outdoor skills, driving and seeing that our participants enjoy their experience.
If you are interested in becoming a volunteer leader for CSUSB Outdoor we encourage you to complete the steps outlined below to join our Leader in Training Program. For more information on becoming a leader you can call Mark Oswood (909)537-3863 or email moswood@csusb.edu.
How to Become a Leader in Training
Outdoor Leader Meeting, First Monday of Every Month
Join us on campus (see website for location) on the first Monday of every month at 7pm and learn some of the skills needed to be a leader for CSUSB Outdoors. At this meeting you will meet some of our programÕs leaders and learn more about what trips are going on as well as upcoming leader training opportunities. The evening also includes free food, fun and a slide show of past and upcoming trips.
Attend a CSUSB Outdoors Trip or Have Previous Outdoor Experience Upcoming Trips
If you do not have any previous outdoor experience you will need to attend at least one of our trips before becoming a leader in training. We offer trips for all skill levels and fitness levels. Check out our calendar for upcoming trips.
Submit an Application Application
Once you complete the above requirements please download the application from our website and turn it into the Student Recreation and Fitness Center. After review we will set up an interview. After the interview we either accept you into the Leader in Training Program or provide you with feedback on how to further your development.
Once in the Leader in Training Program
As a leader in training you will get to learn more about leading for CSUSB Outdoors by shadowing trips, completing a defense driver training, attending an overnight training and completing CPR and first aid certifications. These learning opportunities will help prepare you to become an outdoor leader.
Shadow at least 2 Outdoors Trips
As a shadow you will learn apprentice style from our program leaders on an Outdoors trip. The CSUSB Outdoors Supervisor will contact you and determine which trips you will join as a shadow.
Attend Trainings
Every few months we offer one day to multi-day trainings where we learn and practice outdoor and leadership skills. Leaders in training are required to attend at least 4 days of training before becoming a Leader.
Complete CPR, First Aid and Wilderness First Aid Upcoming Wilderness First Aid Class
Offered at no cost to leaders in training.
CSUSB Defensive Driver Training
Offered weekly at no cost to leaders in training.
Complete Food Safety Training
Offered for Free
Once a Leader
After you have complete the Leader in Training Program you can request trips you would like to lead. We will assign you and another leader to lead trips that match your skills and leadership ability. Leaders are expected to continue to attend outdoor workshops, leader training trips and to keep current in certifications.
Benefits of Being a CSUSB Outdoors Leader
- Great leadership experience
- Discounts on trips and rentals
- Explore the great outdoors
- Make friends with similar interests
- Opportunity to stay fit and healthy
- Possible career exploration
- Conferences and trainings free or at reduced price
- Discounts on purchasing outdoor gear
