VEGA Essential Info Packet
Essential Info
Director’s Note:
Congratulations! On behalf of all the trip leaders and support staff, I
would like to personally welcome you to VEGA—Penn State’s
Wilderness Orientation Program. VEGA will prove to be an amazing
and unique way to start your college experience. To ensure a
successful and fun week, please take the time to read this packet, it is
filled with useful information to aid you in preparing for your trip. Let
us know if you have any questions, and get ready for an amazing week
that will surely change how you see college!
Best, Jen Emigh
Expedition Description
Page 2
Health Form
Page 3
Assumption of Risk Form
Page 5
Special Use Risk Form
Page 7
ATK Risk Form
Page 9
VEGA Gear List
Page 10
Additional Info
Important Dates
VEGA Sessions
Travel Day
Fall
August 13
August 14-18
Health & Assumption of Risk Forms:
Due June 15
VEGA Checklist
 Read entire Essential Information Packet
 Complete Health History and Assumption of Risk forms –
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Due June 15
Review Gear List and acquire all items
Visit AURORA website for more information and FAQ’s
Like AURORA Facebook page in order to get updates and
information leading up to your trip
Pack your belongings and embark on your VEGA
experience
VEGA Menu
Page 12
Additional Information
Page 13
First Year Seminar Form
Page 14
Contact Us
Trip-Related Questions
Jen Emigh – AURORA Director
814.865.3890
[email protected]
Registration & Billing Questions
Marie Taylor – Registration Coordinator
814.865.3880
[email protected]
“By reaching out and being the ones
who are willing to show people such
as me, the skills and values that will
make us successful, I believe in the
AURORA experience as one that can
usher change in to the world
through the Penn State community.”
-AURORA Participant
VEGA Expedition Description
Arrival
On your VEGA travel day, you will fly into the Seattle-Tacoma International Airport. You need to arrive by
2:00 p.m. on August 13th. Our staff will be in the airport to meet you. It is extremely important that your
flight arrives by 2:00 p.m. so we are able to transport the whole group to our basecamp and preparation area
for the first night. You are responsible for bringing money for dinner on travel day. Also, be sure to bring
plenty of snacks, we will have some back at camp but will not arrive until the evening. It is also important
that you begin to hydrate on travel day. Try to drink at least 64oz on this day!
Travel Arrangements
You are responsible for making your own travel arrangements for your VEGA week. Here are the specifics
you need to follow when booking your flights. You will need to fly into and out of Seattle-Tacoma
International Airport.
Travel Day/Arrival: August 13th, 2017 – Your flight needs to be scheduled to arrive by 2:00 p.m. PST
Departure: August 18th, 2017 – Your flight needs to be scheduled to leave no earlier than 8:00 a.m. PST
After booking your flight, please follow the link below and enter your itinerary information into our Google
Doc. If you have any questions or concerns about booking your transportation please contact Jen Emigh,
Program Director, at 814.865.3890. Once you arrive in the airport, you will contact our Program Manager
for VEGA (contact details will be provided) for instructions on where to meet the group.
Travel Itinerary Link
Backpacking
Although each VEGA expedition may vary, participants should expect that once they arrive to the airport in
Washington they are part of the VEGA expedition for the next five days. Participants will spend the next four
days and nights backpacking with your group. Each participant will be carrying a 40 to 50-pound pack that
contains food, gear, and personal items for anywhere between two and seven miles a day on variable terrain.
(Participants are encouraged to physically prepare before arriving.) During this time it IS possible for us to
do an emergency evacuation for injuries incurred on the trail; however it is NOT possible to be evacuated
because you no longer want to hike. Please keep this in mind and be sure that you are willing to commit to
the entire VEGA week. During your week you will learn a great deal about yourself and others as you hike,
camp, keep a journal, and explore. Some participants may have a great deal of experience in the backcountry;
others may never have had a backcountry experience at all. Together you will learn from one another and
your instructors the proper methods of environmentally conscious camping, including group cooking, tent
placement, water purification, and backcountry hygiene. In addition, one can expect to learn map skills,
natural history, and risk management.
Additional Adventure Experience and Final Evening
Following your backpacking adventure, you will spend a day sea kayaking to explore more of the Olympic
Peninsula. You will spend that evening back at basecamp where you will clean and de-issue gear and have a
hearty cookout. You will also wrap-up your VEGA experience with your group and prepare to depart in the
morning.
Conclusion & Departure
On the final day of the course your leaders will transport you back to the airport where you will check in and
go off on your separate ways to board your flight home. Please note that once you are back at the airport and
checked in for your flight, the program is officially over and we are no longer responsible for the
participants. You are on your own; this is because our staff cannot accompany each participant to their gate.
But don’t worry; your group will be back together soon once you arrive for your first day on Penn State’s
campus.
VEGA 2
Due by June 15
AURORA 2017—Health History
Please return this form to Marie Taylor,
AURORA Registration Coordinator
At Shaver's Creek Environmental Center
3400 Discovery Road, Petersburg, PA 16669-2114
Please mark the session that you are enrolled for:
____ ORION LEAP (July 31-August 4)
____ ORION Summer (August 5-10)
____ ORION Fall (August 14-18)
____ POLARIS
____ URSA
____ VEGA
____ RIGEL
Name: ___________________________________________________________________ Sex: _______________________________________
Address: _________________________________________________________________ Phone: ____________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________ Email: ____________________________________
In case of emergency please notify:
Name: ___________________________________________________________________ Relation: __________________________________
Address: ________________________________________________________________ Phone: _____________________________________
Family Physician: ____________________________________________________________________________________________________
Address: ________________________________________________________________ Phone: _____________________________________
Medical/Health Insurance Company: ______________________________________________________________________________
Phone: _________________________________________________________________ Policy #: ____________________________________
Do you have a history of (please check): If yes, please describe. Add paper if necessary.
Yes No
___ ___
Asthma (If yes, medical documentation is required for
you to participate as this is a physically active program)
If yes, please describe in detail
Back problems
___ ___
Knee problems
___ ___
Diabetes
___ ___
Seizures/Convulsions
___ ___
Blood Conditions (hemophilia?)
___ ___
Heart Condition
___ ___
Other: ________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Allergies: what is your allergy? _________________________________ (ie. bees stings, foods, medications, shellfish, iodine?)
Severity of Allergy:
Mild
Moderate
Severe
Life Threatening
How does Reaction Present Itself? ________________________________________________________________________
(If you have an allergy that requires epinephrine, please be sure to bring your own Epi-pen)
Height: ___________
Weight: ____________
Resting Pulse Rate: ________________
Date of most recent tetanus booster: ____________
Date of most recent Physical Exam: _____________
Any Operations/Serious Injuries? Are you completely recovered? No____ Yes____ If yes, please describe.
Any Dietary Restrictions (including vegetarian)? No____
Any Physical Limitations? No____
Yes____ If yes, please describe.
Yes____ If yes, please describe in detail.
Are you taking any medications (including diet pills, etc)? No____
Yes____ If yes, please describe.
VEGA 3
What is your experience level?
____ I have never backpacked before (backpacking = carrying a full pack for at least one overnight).
____ Novice—I have backpacked once or twice in my life.
____ Intermediate—I have backpacked three to five times before.
____ Advanced—I have been on more than five backpacking trips.
Do you have ANY condition that requires regular visits to a doctor? Please describe. Use additional paper if necessary.
You will be carrying a 30–40 lb. backpack over rough and sometimes steep terrain for 4-10 miles a day. Do you have
ANY physical conditions that might be worsened or aggravated by this activity? Please describe:
Any other physical, cognitive, sensory or emotional limitations of which you would like our staff to be aware of or that
might require special accommodations?
PERMISSION AND CONSENT
I certify that this health history is correct. I hereby authorize a physician(s) selected by the AURORA Program, or staff at
the University Health Services or the Emergency/Outpatient Department of the most appropriate hospital to provide
such care that includes routine diagnostic procedures and medical treatment as necessary.
I understand this consent is valid only during the stated dates of the AURORA Program.
I give permission for the AURORA Program Staff to provide first aid. A photocopy of this authorization shall be
considered as effective and valid as the original.
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Signature
Date
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Signature of guardian if participant is not 18 years old
Date
PERMISSION TO PHOTOGRAPH (Optional)
I give my permission to be photographed or videotaped while participating in the
AURORA Program. I understand that the images will be used by AURORA to promote the program.
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Signature
Date
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Signature of guardian if participant is not 18 years old
Date
** If for religious reasons you cannot sign any part of this document, please contact ORION director for a legal waiver
that must be signed for attendance.
VEGA 4
Due by June 15
The Pennsylvania State University
Acknowledgement and Assumption of Risks—
AURORA First-Year Orientation Program (KINES 089)
Please review this document carefully before signing. All students/participants must sign this document.
For participants under 18 years of age, parents or guardians must also sign.
The AURORA program takes place in wild and remote settings. It is important that participants (and
parent(s) of minor participants) understand the risks (also known as hazards or dangers) associated with
AURORA adventure activities. AURORA makes reasonable efforts to manage the risks, but does not provide a
guarantee of safety. Some, but not all of the activities, which may be mandatory or optional, scheduled or
unscheduled, supervised or unsupervised as part of the AURORA program include:
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Travel and living in remote wilderness settings
Cooking on a camp stove
Using liquid fuel (white gas or denatured alcohol) stoves
Transportation in 15-passenger vans
Wilderness first aid and rescue, real and simulated
Backpacking and camping in mountains
Rock climbing
Swiftwater canoeing
Flatwater canoeing
Involvement in teambuilding games and activities
Some, but not all of the inherent or other risks of activities that participants may or will be exposed to
include:
 Misjudgments by self, others, or by AURORA leaders
 Inappropriate conduct or negligence by self, others, or AURORA leaders
 Unpredictable weather
 Extreme cold and heat, sun, lightning, wind, rain, and snow
 Unmarked or obscured hazards
 Moving water in creeks and rivers, whitewater
 Difficult stream crossings
 Steep slopes, difficult terrain, downed trees
 Falling rocks and/or trees
 Sustained lifting, carrying, or hiking
 Improper hygiene
 Failure of equipment, despite reasonable maintenance
 Remote locations, hours from help
 Dangerous road conditions and transportation problems
 Falling down or slipping
 Animal hazards: stings, bites, poisoning, and blows (trauma)
 Other risks associated with adventure activities
These and other activities, risks, hazards, and dangers can result in (for example):
 Falls, being struck, or colliding with objects or people
 Experiencing vehicle capsize or collision
 Drowning
 Becoming lost or disoriented
 Injuries due to heat, cold, altitude, or heavy exertion
 Illness: long- or short-term, gastrointestinal problems
VEGA 5
These and other activities, risks, hazards, and dangers can result in (for example):
 Broken bones, wounds, cuts, burns
 Property damage or loss
 Mental/emotional trauma, temporary or permanent
 Other injury, damage, permanent disability, death, or loss
I (participant and parent(s)/guardian(s) of a minor participant):
 Have read and understand the above stated information and all other AURORA program information
received.
 Have carefully read, reviewed, completed, and signed the provided AURORA forms and paperwork
and agree to abide by the terms of those documents.
 Know that AURORA staff is, and has been available, should I have questions regarding the nature and
physical/mental demands of AURORA activities and risks associated with those activities.
 Understand that The Pennsylvania State University cannot assure the participants safety or eliminate
associated risks, and that all participants share in the responsibility of their own safety.
 Understand that the information provided is not complete and that other unknown or unanticipated
risks, events, and outcomes may exist and are possible.
 Represent that the participant is voluntarily participating, with knowledge of the risks, and can do so
without causing harm to themselves or others.
 Assume and accept full responsibility in regard to all participants for the inherent or other risks
(both known and unknown) of these activities and for any injury, damage, death, or other loss
suffered by the participant and/or their parent(s) or guardian(s) resulting from those risks, and do
hereby unconditionally release and hold harmless The Pennsylvania State University, its directors,
officers, employees and agents from any and all liability in regards to said risks.
Participants and parent(s) or guardian(s) of a minor participant agree: I have carefully and
thoroughly read, understand, and voluntarily sign this two-page document and acknowledge that it
shall be effective and binding upon me, my participating minor child, other family members, and my
heirs, executors, and representatives.
All participants and parent(s) or guardian(s) of any minor participants (those under 18 years of age) MUST
sign below:
___________________________________________
Participant Signature
_______________
Date
_____________________________________
Print Name Here
___________________________________________
Parent or Guardian Signature
_______________
Date
_____________________________________
Print Name Here
___________________________________________
2nd Parent or Guardian Signature
_______________
Date
______________________________________
Print Name Here
VEGA 6
Due by June 15
***
SPECIAL USE PERMIT (Non-Profit)
EXHIBIT 2
VISITOR’S ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF RISKS
In consideration of the services of Penn State University's freshmen orientation backpacking program their
officers, agents, employees, and stockholders, and all other persons or entities associated with those businesses
(hereinafter collectively referred to as “VEGA” I agree as follows:
Although VEGA has taken reasonable steps to provide me with appropriate equipment and skilled guides
so I can enjoy an activity for which I may not be skilled, VEGA has informed me this activity is not without risk.
Certain risks are inherent in each activity and cannot be eliminated without destroying the unique character of the
activity. These inherent risks are some of the same elements that contribute to the unique character of this activity
and can be the cause of loss or damage to my equipment, or accidental injury, illness, or in extreme cases,
permanent trauma or death. VEGA does not want to frighten me or reduce my enthusiasm for this activity, but
believes it is important for me to know in advance what to expect and to be informed of the inherent risks. The
following describes some, but not all, of those risks.
Inappropriate conduct, misjudgment or negligence by self or others
Unpredictable weather to include extreme cold and heat, sun, lightning, wind, rain, and snow
Unmarked or obscured hazards to include falling rocks and/or trees
Moving water in creeks and rivers, whitewater, tidal currents and waves
Difficult stream crossings, steep slopes, difficult terrain, downed trees
Falling down, slipping off, or blown from high elevation
High altitude sickness
Sustained lifting, carrying, or hiking
Failure of equipment, despite reasonable maintenance
Remote locations, hours from help
Dangerous road conditions and transportation problems
Animal hazards: stings, bites, poisoning, mauling, trampling, drowning, and blows(trauma)
Other risks associated with adventure activities
Falls, being struck, or colliding with objects or people
Experiencing vehicle capsize or collision
Drowning, entrapment, or becoming lost or disoriented
Injuries due to heat, cold, altitude, submersion, or heavy exertion
Illness: long- or short-term, gastrointestinal problems
Broken bones, wounds, cuts, burns, dismemberment
I am aware that VEGA entails risks of injury or death to any participant. I understand the description of
these inherent risks is not complete and that other unknown or unanticipated inherent risks may result in injury or
death. I agree to assume and accept full responsibility for the inherent risks identified herein and those inherent
risks not specifically identified. My participation in this activity is purely voluntary, no one is forcing me to
participate, and I elect to participate in spite of and with full knowledge of the inherent risks.
I acknowledge that engaging in this activity may require a degree of skill and knowledge different than other
activities and that I have responsibilities as a participant. I acknowledge that the staff of VEGA has been available
to more fully explain to me the nature and physical demands of this activity and the inherent risks, hazards, and
dangers associated with this activity.
I certify that I am fully capable of participating in this activity. Therefore, I assume and accept full
responsibility for myself, including all minor children in my care, custody, and control, for bodily injury, death or
loss of personal property and expenses as a result of those inherent risks and dangers identified herein and those
inherent risks and dangers not specifically identified, and, as a result of my negligence in participating in this
activity.
VEGA 7
I have carefully read, clearly understood and accepted the terms and conditions stated herein and acknowledge that
this agreement shall be effective and binding upon myself, my heirs, assigns, personal representative and estate and
for all members of my family, including minor children.
_________________________________
Signature
____________________
Date
Under 18, signature of parent or guardian
_________________________________
Signature
____________________
Date
VEGA 8
Due by June 15
Adventures Through Kayaking, Inc.
VISITOR’S ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF RISKS
In consideration of the services of Adventures Through Kayaking, Inc., their officers, agents, employees,
and stockholders, and all other persons or entities associated with those businesses (hereinafter collectively
referred to as “ATK” I agree as follows:
Although “ATK” has taken reasonable steps to provide me with appropriate equipment and skilled guides
so I can enjoy an activity for which I may not be skilled, “ATK” has informed me this activity is not without risk.
Certain risks are inherent in each activity and cannot be eliminated without destroying the unique character of the
activity. These inherent risks are some of the same elements that contribute to the unique character of this activity
and can be the cause of loss or damage to my equipment, or accidental injury, illness, or in extreme cases,
permanent trauma or death. “ATK” does not want to frighten me or reduce my enthusiasm for this activity, but
believes it is important for me to know in advance what to expect and to be informed of the inherent risks. The
following describes some, but not all, of those risks. Illness, Injury, Death.
I am aware that “ATK” entails risks of injury or death to any participant. I understand the description of
these inherent risks is not complete and that other unknown or unanticipated inherent risks may result in injury or
death. I agree to assume and accept full responsibility for the inherent risks identified herein and those inherent
risks not specifically identified. My participation in this activity is purely voluntary, no one is forcing me to
participate, and I elect to participate in spite of and with full knowledge of the inherent risks.
I acknowledge that engaging in this activity may require a degree of skill and knowledge different than other
activities and that I have responsibilities as a participant. I acknowledge that the staff of “ATK” has been available
to more fully explain to me the nature and physical demands of this activity and the inherent risks, hazards, and
dangers associated with this activity.
I certify that I am fully capable of participating in this activity. Therefore, I assume and accept full
responsibility for myself, including all minor children in my care, custody, and control, for bodily injury, death or
loss of personal property and expenses as a result of those inherent risks and dangers identified herein and those
inherent risks and dangers not specifically identified, and, as a result of my negligence in participating in this
activity.
I have carefully read, clearly understood and accepted the terms and conditions stated herein and
acknowledge that this agreement shall be effective and binding upon myself, my heirs, assigns, personal
representative and estate and for all members of my family, including minor children.
_________________________________ ____________________ _ _________________
Signature
Printed Name
Date
_________________________________ _____________________ ___________________
Address City State/Zip
Under 18, signature of parent or guardian
_________________________________ ____________________ __________________
Signature
Printed Name Date
VEGA 9
Gear List – What should I bring?
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ESSENTIAL ITEMS (bring all of these items)
Rain Jacket & Pants: 100% waterproof and seam-sealed
 Headlamp: Bring an extra set of batteries. The smaller and
(Gore-Tex or equivalent).
lighter the better!
Mid-weight Fleece / Wool / Synthetic Layer: For those
 Water Bottle: At least one wide-mouth liter size (leak
cool summer nights. (Summer evening temps can be as low
proof) bottle (Nalgene, Klean Kanteen, etc.). Camelbacks
(water bladders) 100 oz or more are highly recommended.
as 35 F).
A second bottle will be provided for you.
Short-sleeved Shirt & Long-sleeved Shirt: One of each for  Sneakers/Water Shoes: One pair to wear around
warm & cool hiking days. Either all synthetic material or
camp and/or one pair sufficient for kayaking and
merino wool is recommended. NO COTTON! Cotton gets
stream crossings (can be the same pair). No open-toed
wet and heavy and will not dry. It also can cause chaffing
shoes while on the trail. Lightweight closed toed shoes
while backpacking. No thin strap tank tops because your
for streams are helpful (crocs, water shoes, 5fingers)
backpack will rub against your shoulders and make them
sore.
Hiking Conversion Pants: Loose fit nylon hiking or
 Sun Screen / Lip Balm / Bug Spray: Very small containers.
athletic style. (If you need to bring separate shorts/pants
Sun Protection factor (SPF) 15+. Mosquitoes are abundant.
that is OK. No cotton or jeans!)
Long Underwear: Synthetic or wool baselayer
 Gloves: Camp can get a little chilly, a good pair of light-mid(pants/shirt). For use as camp clothing / sleep wear / extra
weight gloves are helpful.
layers under rain gear.
Synthetic Underwear: Two to three changes should be
 Socks: Four pairs. Socks should be made
sufficient.
specifically for hiking (nylon, polyester, or wool).
Do NOT bring cotton socks.
Bowl / Spoon/ Fork): Durable, plastic, lightweight
 Personal Stuff: Toothbrush, toothpaste (travel size),
(metal or ceramics are too heavy) – a spork (combined spoon/fork)
personal medications (inhaler for asthma, epi-pen for bee
works well for a utensil.
sting allergies, ibuprofen, Gold Bond, etc.).
 Females: Extra feminine supplies – just in case.
Bandana: Enough said.
 Beanie/Wool Hat: For damp cold nights.
Hiking Boots (waterproof): The most important piece of
 FINAL DAY Shower Supplies: Including towel, soap,
equipment! One pair of sturdy boots with good ankle
shampoo, (any other toiletries), clean clothes (can be
support, comfortable and fit properly. If you are buying
cotton), comfortable shoes/sandals, etc. Used for cookout on
new boots, give yourself a sufficient amount of time to
the last day. You will shower after backpacking/ kayaking
break them in. Boots not broken-in cause blisters - which
for the cookout. You will NOT be carrying this on the trail
makes for a miserable trip. (See reverse for more
with you. It will be stored while you are out on the trail and
information).
delivered to you upon return. You must pay for the
showers at the campsite so bring a few quarters.
OPTIONAL ITEMS (not required but you may like having some of these things)
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Pocket Knife: One small, Swiss-style folding knife is sufficient.
Don’t buy one if you don’t already have one.
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Mug: For coffee and tea on the trail
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Rain Hat: Consider waterproofing your head (this is
optional and based on preferences). If you choose not to
bring a rain hat at least have a brimmed hat for sun
protection.
Small Book: For nighttime reading or to share with a
friend.
Camera: For all the awesome memories you are going to
make! No smartphones please (Note: if you do bring this
item make sure you have some way to keep it dry).
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Money: You will not need money aside from your personal
travel days (airport food and drink) and quarters for the
shower. However, pay attention to your arrival & departure
time and plan accordingly.
** Please DO NOT bring electronic items such as mp3 players, games, or cell phones. **
VEGA 10
Other Important Gear Information
VEGA will provide all of the necessary group gear for the trip including: tents/tarps, first aid kits,
maps/compass, stoves, cookware, journals, water purification systems, backpack, sleeping bag, sleeping pad,
Gators, trekking pole, and great food! Before you venture out on our backpacking trips, an instructor will
look over your gear to make sure that you are ready. You may bring your own personal gear if you would
like; however leaders will determine if your equipment is appropriate for our program on the first day. We
do have storage available for items you decide not to carry on the trail.
Appalachian Ski & Outdoors is a local State College outdoor retailer. As a VEGA sponsor, the store offers a
10% discount to all VEGA participants as well as a great website to help you with gear selection. Go to
http://www.appoutdoors.com/vega.htm and look for the VEGA symbol or stop by the store to find
everything you need to be properly outfitted for VEGA . Your web discount code: AURORA17
Weather: Generally, Olympic National Park has summer temperatures in the 50’s to 70’s ° F but we have
seen it all… RAINY days, HOT days, and COLD days! Even on warm days, temperatures can be considerably
cooler in the evenings, dropping as low as 35° F at night. The Pacific Northwest is known to be very rainy and
damp, and in fact, Olympic National Park annually receives the most precipitation in the Lower 48 states.
Since you can never be sure what the weather will be like, you need to bring a range of clothing for various
conditions. By having a variety of layers of clothing you can adjust your layers to suit your activity level and
the weather conditions.
Clothing: (Excerpted from Rick Curtis’ The Backpacker’s Field Manual)
Cotton fabrics or cotton-blends absorb and retain water, and therefore will NOT keep you warm if they
become wet. Also, it can be difficult to dry. For this reason you SHOULD NOT bring cotton clothes such as
sweatshirts, sweatpants or jeans. We strongly encourage you to wear nylon, wool, polyester or other
synthetic clothing. Wool and synthetic fleece fabrics don’t absorb water so they keep you warm even if they
get wet. Fleece also dries very quickly. A wool sweater or fleece jacket provides warmth on a cold
evening. These are essential to your comfort on the trip!
A combination of these fabrics creates a layering system. The inner layer keeps skin dry and comfortable.
Synthetic t-shirts and shorts are lightweight and will dry quickly when wet from perspiration or from rain.
The outer layer provides insulation and is usually a wool sweater or fleece jacket. You will wear this around
camp at night. The shell layer protects you from wind and rain. A waterproof rain jacket is essential in case
of bad weather. A seam-sealed, nylon rain jacket is lightweight, inexpensive, and works well. Waterproofbreathable fabrics like Gore-Tex are some of the best choices. For the head layer, bring a brimmed hat for
sun and rain protection. At night, a wool or synthetic fleece hat can be helpful for warmth. The feet layer
includes a wool/nylon-blend hiking sock. Since wool or synthetic material doesn’t absorb water it passes the
moisture from your foot outwards, keeping your foot drier. If your feet get damp, they get wrinkled and are
more prone to blisters. Wearing synthetic or wool socks means that your socks will not absorb water and
therefore will not be as likely to cause blisters.
Hiking Boots: One pair of high-quality backpacking boots (consult a professional outfitter).
Waterproof hiking boots should provide full ankle support. Boots should fit comfortably while wearing a
synthetic/wool hiking sock. Above all, make sure that your boots are well broken-in before you arrive.
Otherwise your feet will pay the price. We cannot emphasize this enough: non-broken-in boots inevitably
will cause chafing and blisters!
Remember, we will be on a tight schedule after your arrival in Seattle so it is imperative that you come
equipped with the appropriate gear and clothing—we will not have time to shop for anything you may have
forgotten. If you have any question regarding your items or if you would like suggestions on purchases,
please contact Jen Emigh, Program Director, at 814.865.3890.
VEGA 11
VEGA Food
The VEGA menu has been adapted and modified throughout the years the program has been running. Our
expert staff has assembled an array of trail-friendly foods that are packed with energy and nutrition to fuel
you throughout your VEGA experience. All food is provided by the program, however you are welcome to
bring additional snacks if you so choose.
Below is an overview of the menu for your VEGA week.
VEGA
Menu
Travel Day
Day 1
Trail
Day 2
Trail
Day 3
Trail
Breakfast
On your own
Snacks
On your own
Coffee
Tea
Oatmeal
Bagel
Granola
Snack Pack
Coffee
Tea
Oatmeal
Bagel
Granola
Snack Pack
Coffee
Tea
Oatmeal
Bagel
Granola
Snack Pack
Lunch
On your own
Dinner
Stop on Way
(bring $)
Flatbread
Tortilla
PB & J
Tuna
Pepperoni
Cheese
Hummus
Stir-Fry
Broccoli
Zucchini
Onions
Quinoa
Canned
Chicken
Soy Sauce
Hot Sauce
Flatbread
Tortilla
PB & J
Tuna
Pepperoni
Cheese
Hummus
Burritos
Tortillas
Green Pepper
Rice
Onion
Black Beans
Cheese
Hot Sauce
Flatbread
Tortilla
PB & J
Tuna
Pepperoni
Cheese
Humus
Backcountry
Risotto
Rice
Cream of
Mushroom
Soup
Frozen Peas
Frozen Corn
Day 4
Adventure Day
& Cookout
Coffee
Tea
Oatmeal
Bagel
Granola
Snack Pack
Day 5
Final Day
Stop on Way
(bring $)
X
Provided by
Adventures
Through
Kayaking
X
Cookout at
Campsite
X
ALLERGIES AND DIETARY RESTRICTIONS – We are experienced in dealing with an array of food
allergies and dietary restrictions. We can easily tweak our menus for vegetarians, gluten-free diets,
and various food allergies. PLEASE be sure to make note of your restrictions on your Health Form
so that we can make these tweaks.
For food related questions please contact Drew at 814.865.3927
VEGA 12
Additional Information
Leaders
Your leaders for the VEGA program are as diverse as the group of students they will be leading. Some are
current Penn State students and some are recent graduates, with degrees from nearly every field imaginable:
think engineering to biochemistry to outdoor recreation. Many participated in one of our AURORA Outdoor
Orientation Programs as incoming freshmen, which means they have been right where you are now. They
have all gone through extensive training in many areas, including backpacking and first aid skills, Leave No
Trace principles, group facilitation, and teambuilding. The common thread for this diverse group (our VEGA
Family!) is that they all share a passion for the outdoors and for teaching and working with people. They all
want to provide the best possible experience for you and help to ease your transition from high school to
college to the best of their abilities. They will be your teacher, your mentor, and your friend, and they will be
there for you in times of need throughout your Penn State career!
Special Situations
In the event of an emergency requiring parents to contact their son or daughter, please call the VEGA
program director’s personal cell phone at 814-571-2667. Please be aware that in some cases it may take
several hours to transport a message, as participants will be out on the trail. Again, this number is for
emergencies only.
Physical Preparation
VEGA is a physically demanding program as participants carry 40 to 50 pounds of weight on their backs for
hours/days at a time. The trails in Olympic National Park are rocky, variable, sometimes steep, and rigorous.
The best way to prepare for VEGA is to spend some time undertaking physical conditioning— If you are used
to sitting in a classroom all day, the best way to start is by walking and then increasing to activities such as
running, hiking, swimming, and other cardiovascular activities that will help to get you in shape.
Hiking boots are the most important piece of equipment that you will bring. Be sure the boots you have are
truly made for hiking; they should be well broken in, sturdy, and fit well with some wiggle room. If you are
buying new boots, be sure to work with your local outdoor retailer to ensure that you have the proper fit and
correct boot for your feet. Blisters are a common complaint with VEGA participants. If your feet are sore on
the trail, you will not be enjoying the program as much as you could be.
Early Move-In
An added benefit for VEGA participants is the opportunity to put your belongings (not electronics) into
storage in the Housing area where you have your fall housing assignment. You should receive your fall
housing assignment by the end of July. If you would like to move your belongings into storage, you will need
to contact your assigned housing area and make an appointment. Storage availability is at the discretion of
each housing office and may be available as early as August 8. Due to summer school, construction projects,
and a very busy summer conference schedule there is high probability that you will NOT be able to store
your belongings in your fall room assignment. An attempt will be made to provide an alternative storage
location elsewhere in the building or respective Housing area but please note that early storage cannot be
guaranteed. ALL questions related to storage must be directed to the appropriate Housing Office
listed below, we have no control over this process and therefore are unable answer your specific
storage questions.
Pollock Halls: 814-865-4321 North Halls: 814-865-9521
East Halls: 814-865-1791
South Halls: 814-865-2391
West Halls: 814-865-9526
VEGA 13
First-Year Seminar Registration Form
Our First-Year Seminar is an optional course opportunity, offered exclusively for
AURORA first-year orientation program students at University Park Campus.
Fall Semester
RPTM 397
1-credit
This interactive and experiential course is designed to help you re-connect with and meet other AURORA
participants and to help you acclimatize to the academic and social culture of Penn State University. Our
objective is to help you engage with academic, social, and personal resources available at Penn State and in
the community; and to help facilitate your transition to college life.
Space is limited to 36 students so sign-up now for a great start to your fall semester.
Class will meet twice a week for 9 weeks
Mondays and Wednesdays, 1:25-2:15 pm
August 23–October 25
Connections with Penn State Resources:
Library Resources
Health Center
Police Services
Career Services
Campus Activities
Service Learning
Time Management
Sustainability
And more!!
Instructor: Laurie McLaughlin
For information about the course, please contact
Laurie McLaughlin [email protected] 814-865-4158
AURORA First-Year Seminar Registration Form – RPTM 397
Please return this form to Marie Taylor by mail at:
Shaver’s Creek Environmental Center
3400 Discovery Rd
Petersburg, PA 16669
_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Last Name
First name
MI
_____________________________________
Penn State ID
Participating in which first-year orientation program
ORION POLARIS URSA VEGA
_____________________________________
Phone Number
____________________________________________________________________
Email address that you check often!
VEGA 14