Reid Gym 122
Cullowhee, NC 28723
Map
Directions
828.227.3843 tel
tholkes@wcu.edu
Handbooks and Manuals
- Student Handbook (Word)
- Internship Requirements (pdf)
- Capstone Internship Manual (Word)
Useful Organizations
Wilderness Education Association (WEA). The PRM Program is affiliated through the WEA. Currently we do not offer WEA courses but we advise PRM majors to do an expedition course through another WEA affiliate such as IWLS (International Wilderness Leadership School). The focus of the courses include; leadership, judgment, and decision making; the modes of travel are mountaineering, backpacking, rock climbing, and canoeing. Completing an expedition is highly recommended – either with a WEA affiliate, the National Outdoor Leadership School, or Outward Bound. Course credit can be received through PRM 486 Field Experience.
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Kirk Workman, ski instructor (L) |
The National Ski Pat rol (NSP). The PRM Program also is accredited through the National Ski Patrol. Completing the NSP’s Outdoor Emergency Care Certificate through PRM 256 will qualify you to train with the Ski Patrol at Cataloochee or Sapphire Valley Ski Resorts. This qualification also is regarded as being the equivalent of a Wilderness First Responder (WFR), the First Aid qualification currently regarded as the standard in the outdoor profession for outdoor leaders. The certification can be maintained by attending the annual updates provided by the National Ski Patrol throughout the country. Courses also are offered in professional rescuer CPR each year for students wishing to become involved with the ski patrol.
North Carolina Recreation & Park Association (NCRPA) (www.ncrpa.net)
NCRPA is a nonprofit education and advocacy organization, dedicated to the advancement
of the park, recreation and leisure profession in the state of North Carolina. PRM
majors are eligible for a student membership, which provides access to workshops,
seminars, conferences, publications, networking and a job listing service.
National Recreation & Parks Association (NRPA) (www.nrpa.org)
The NRPA is the leading advocacy organization dedicated to the advancement of public
parks and recreation opportunities. PRM majors are eligible for a student membership.
The NRPA organizes conferences and workshops each year where students can learn about
the latest developments in the recreation field and network with industry professionals.
Resort & Commercial Recreation Association (RCRA) (www.rcra.org)
The RCRA is an international non-profit organization, which is made up of professionals,
educators, and students in resort and commercial related industries. PRM majors may
become student members of the organization and attend their annual conferences and
workshops. The organization also provides a job search service.
Outward Bound (www.outwardbound.org), National Outdoor Leadership School (www.nols.edu) and the International Wilderness Leadership School (www.iwls.com)
Students interested in careers as outdoor leaders are strongly encouraged to participate
in an expedition style course offered by one of these organizations.
Professional Ski Instructors of American (PSIA) and the American Association of Snowboard Instructors (AASI) (www.thesnowpros.org)
Students who are interested in working within the snowsport industry as instructors
are encouraged to become certified through PSIA/AASI. Internship and job opportunities
are available at our local area, Cataloochee Ski Area in Maggie Valley, NC.
American C
anoe Association (ACA) (www.americancanoe.org)
The ACA provides instructor certification for canoeing, kayaking, rafting, adaptive
paddling, stand up paddling and safety and rescue. WCU’s close proximity to a variety
of summer camps and whitewater rafting outfitters, provides many opportunities for
internships and job opportunities for those students interested in working in the
paddling industry.
Study Abroad
You may be able to study abroad for around the same cost as studying at Western. We have a special agreement with
the Galway Mayo Institute of Technology in Ireland and have had international exchanges
for a few years now. Studying in Ireland would require a year commitment and is best
done early. Study abroad is a great experience! Ask for further details.
PRM Club
The PRM Club is part of SGA at WCU and receives funding to help with club expenses. Being
a member of the club enables you to get to know other PRM students who, besides helping
you to make friends on campus, broaden your network of professional contacts for when
you have graduated.
Read more about the PRM Club
Old Cullowhee Canoe Slalom
2012 Event Flyer
Registration Form
Release of Liability Form
Base Camp Medical Information Form