Members must complete both the academic year and summer service component to fulfill their service commitment and be eligible for their educational voucher. All Members must be enrolled as at least part-time students during the academic year. The REAL seminar provides Members with a comprehensive knowledge of public land management policy, practices and an understanding of social and ecological issues related to resource and ecosystem management. The seminar incorporates presentations and dialogue with resource management professionals and community members. Members also receive four service hours toward their 950-hour service commitment for attendance at each seminar.
Members participate in service projects one or two weekends each month and during quarter breaks.
Additionally Members complete an average of 20 additional hours of service each month on a schedule negotiated with the Program Director. During the summer service component, Members are assigned to teams of 4-10 Members under the direction of a team leader. Teams complete a variety of resource management projects in cooperation with program partners. Teams would leave each Monday from the University campus and, depending on project requirements, return to campus Thursday or Friday evening. Service projects will not be scheduled on weekends or holidays during the summer.