From rock climbing in Sedona to white-water rafting on the Colorado River and exploring canyons in Utah, one campus club is taking students out of the classroom and exploring the natural wonders beyond ASU’s campuses.

The Arizona Outing Club takes part in activities like rock climbing, hiking, scuba diving, cliff jumping, skydiving and “almost anything that ends in ‘ing’,” according to the club’s Web site.

AOC is more than just a student club — it’s a way for students to get away from campus and experience adventure, said computer information systems junior Brent Blaylock, president of the club.

The group is one of the few on campus that sponsors more than just scheduled, on-campus activities, Blaylock said.

“It offers students adventure and the ability to experience the Southwest,” he said.

Over the summer, some club members went to Zion National Park in Utah for four days and three nights, Blaylock said, where they hiked to the top of Angels Landing and Zion Narrows, a popular canyon in the area.
“Lots of different people are able to come together and have fun,” he said.

Students can socialize and meet new people, he said, and it’s a great way to see what Arizona has to offer.

ASU student activity adviser Ben Braksick said in an e-mail that clubs like the AOC “introduce students to new activities or skills, help students improve skills and give experienced students the opportunity to teach and share their interests with others.” 

When English literature sophomore Natalie Pierce first came to ASU, she said she didn’t know many people.

“My cousin who went to ASU suggested that I try out the Arizona Outing Club,” Pierce said, adding that it offered her much more than she expected, from friendship to fun activities.

One of the important qualities of these types of clubs is that they are “member driven,” Pierce said. AOC allows students to make decisions about their trips and the activities they take part in.

Pierce said she thinks the club offers team building and other important qualities for college students.

Braksick said he enjoys helping students find clubs that are a good match for their skills and personalities.

“There is so much to do and learn both inside and outside the classroom here at ASU, and I like being able to help students find the tools to create their own success,” he said. “Students also gain experience in event planning, budgeting and communication [in campus clubs].”

Pierce said the activities AOC participates in are opportunities most students wouldn’t otherwise have, even if they are Arizona natives and familiar with the area.

“[AOC is] a great way for students to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life,” she said.

Reach the reporter at paige.soucie@asu.edu.