Expectations:

• You will need to be in moderate physical condition for this trip. The ND Badlands are exciting because you can travel anywhere you want. Still, the terrain poses many ups and downs and the climate can be very arid and hot. In addition, weather can be so fickle as to being in the high 70's one day and snowing the next. So, this will be a physically challenging trip.
• You should prepare by hiking in your hiking boots 4-5 miles/week, preferrably in hilly terrain (such as Chester Park or on the Lester River Ski Trails).
• You can rent gear at very low prices from the Kirby Games & Outing Center. Be sure to reserve your equipment at least 2 weeks in advance.
• In addition, there are some hazards: Heat, cacti, Ticks, Bison, and Prairie Rattle Snakes. While we have never had any problems from any of these, the potential for injury from any of them is real. THERE WILL BE NO TOLERANCE FOR ANY BEHAVIOR THAT IS UNSAFE TOWARD THESE ITEMS.
• Each day we will hold debriefing sessions where we discuss plans for the day, how the day has gone, what dynamics occurred, problem solving skills, and interpersonal strengths & limitations. You should expect to share in group discussions. As such, the intent of this trip is leadership education. While it is a fun and enjoyable trip, it is a learning experience first.
• Finally, in order to make this trip run as smoothly as possible so that we can cover course material in an optimal manner (having minimal "lecture" time), it is imperative that you prepare for the trip both physically AND cognitively. That is,please do the assigned readings before we leave so that we can simply refer to them along the trail. This course will conclude with a written final examination, which you will take on the trail.
  
  Course Costs:
• There are additional costs in this course, beyond your tuition.You should expect to pay $257.50, which covers all costs of travel, food, group equipment.
• Part of leadership training is administrative preparation and follow-through. As such, you will be directly involved in planning the trip. By the end of the course, you will be able to explain and demonstrate good administrative components for this trip.