For this reason, we receive no funding from Vanderbilt. The course is designed to not only teach certain skills for outdoor activities, but to also respect and care for nature. It is hoped that every student leaves the course with a new attitude towards nature. All instructors are previous Wilskills students. Each instructor was competitively chosen by older instructors based on leadership skills, love of the course, and safety.
Instructors give lectures on specific skills or relevant information.
Guest lecturers also give wonderful talks on a variety of subjects. You do not need to know anything or these activities or have any experience in the outdoors to take this course. It is designed to teach people who have never had to rely on themselves in the outdoors or have any previous skills. However, if you already have one or more of the skills taught, we will help you excel in them. All you need is clothing necessary for weekend trips including hiking boots.