The Auburn University Challenge Course offers an opportunity for student groups who are looking for a team-building experience, and an outlet for individuals who want to challenge themselves on an outdoor adventure.
Located about 6.5 miles from campus, the ropes course is a creative way for groups to learn leadership and communication skills while bonding with each other.
Built in January 2007, it features five low elements that are 2-3 feet off the ground, along with 11 high elements that average 35 feet tall. All of the low elements involve partnerships or teams, and are geared toward team-building and leadership development.
Laura Herring, program adviser for the Auburn University Challenge Course, said the most important thing students learn from the course is how to communicate within their groups.
Individuals learn how to be risk takers and build self-confidence on the high elements.
“We live by a challenge by choice philosophy out there,” Herring said. “We don’t make anybody do anything. You have to make the decision- it’s all you.”
Participants on the high elements are fully harnessed. All equipment is provided, and there is no experience needed.
“All you need is some enthusiasm and willingness to try new things,” Herring said.
According to Herring, there is more perceived risk than there is actual risk.
“We’re very safe out there. The staff is well-trained, and our number one priority is the people that come out there,” Herring said.
Staff members complete more than 50 hours of volunteer training.
Challenges are tailored to each group. The curriculum is changed to meet the needs of the participants.
Drew Nelson, a graduate student in veterinary medicine, got involved with the Challenge Course as founding president of the Outdoor Adventure Club. He has been on staff since the course’s founding and agrees it is a great opportunity for people looking to enhance their communication skills as a team.
As a guide, he is responsible for the safety of the participants and observes how they interact with each other. At the end of each activity, he helps participants relate their experiences back to daily life, such as thinking things through and utilizing their resources.
“You learn different things about how your group faces those challenges, how they meet them and what they do to overcome them,” Nelson said. “It’s really a great confidence builder not only as a team, but as an individual, as well.”
Amanda Eubanks, a junior in interior design, said groups who use the ropes develop a closer relationship with each other. From her experience on staff, she thinks participants better understand their group dynamics as they complete the challenges and realize there is a specific function for everyone.
“It just depends on what group comes - they take different stuff away from it,” Eubanks said.
The course is open daylight hours seven days a week, with the exception of official University closings. Groups must book appointments two weeks ahead and have at least eight people. Auburn student groups can pick their own activities.
