Outdoor School FAQs
May anyone apply to be a counselor?
All Penn State students are eligible to apply for a counselor position, regardless of your year or major. We do require background checks and Child Abuse History Clearance of all counselors. Note: If you take ODS for credit, Shaver's Creek will pay for your Child Abuse History Clearance. We will provide the forms, and there is no cost for the background check.
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How can I earn credit for ODS?
If you are selected to be a counselor, you can earn 2 credits, for either SCIED 297A or RPTM 297A, by attending the two training sessions, participating fully in the program, and completing a short writing assignment. We will register you at the first training session.
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When does each week start and end?
A standard week of ODS starts at 2:00 p.m. on Monday and ends by 3:00 p.m. on Friday. Counselors get a three-hour break on Wednesday afternoons. Note: Check the application form for exceptions.
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Do I have to attend both training sessions?
Yes. We cover different material at each training session. The training dates can be found on the application form. If you are unable to attend one of the training sessions, please contact Ellen Will (eeb11@psu.edu) or Paul Brigman (pgb120@psu.edu). Both Ellen and Paul can be reached at Shaver's Creek by calling 814-863-2000.
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You mean I have to miss a week of classes? Will it be an excused absence?
You are responsible for working with your professors to arrange for missing classes. We can provide you with a letter explaining the program and its benefit to the community and to your Penn State education. You will need to be proactive in working ODS into your schedule. ODS is not an official excused absence.
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What if I have a class conflict but really want to be a counselor?
The ODS directors will address specific conflict questions on a case-by-case basis.
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May I go home to feed my pet?
ODS is a weeklong commitment, and we expect you to be present for the duration of the program.
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Do I need a science background? Do I get to teach?
You do not need a science background, just a genuine interest in working with kids and having fun. As a counselor, you are not responsible for lesson content. However, you are expected to contribute during lessons by leading activities, providing group management support, and participating at all times.
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How do I get to ODS?
Once you are accepted for a counselor position, we will give you detailed instructions for driving to Camp Blue Diamond, where ODS is held. PLEASE NOTE: TRAINING IS HELD AT SHAVER'S CREEK. Directions to Shaver's Creek can be found at http://www.shaverscreek.org/
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What if I don't have a car?
We will help set up car pools to ensure that everyone has a ride to training and ODS. There is no bus route to either site.
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What are the bathroom facilities like at ODS?
ODS comes fully equipped with hot showers, flushing toilets, and heated facilities for chilly mornings. All facilities at ODS are accredited by the American Camp Association.
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Are there vegetarian options on the menu?
Yes! A vegetarian entrée is offered at every meal. There is also a well-stocked salad bar at every lunch and dinner, and a cereal bar is included with breakfast.
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What do I need to bring with me to ODS?
Once you are accepted for a counselor position, we will provide you with a counselor handbook that contains a detailed packing list.
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May I bring my guitar?
Yes! All portable instruments are welcome at our campfires.
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Is there ODS in the spring AND the fall?
Yes! ODS typically runs from April to May and from late September to October. We will post the dates on our Web site at the beginning of each semester.
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Are there other fun programs at Shaver's Creek that I can sign up for to earn academic credit and volunteer hours for my major?
Yes! Shaver's Creek offers a variety of experiences for Penn State students. Check out http://www.shaverscreek.org/ for a list of all our programs and courses.
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Many of the photographs included throughout the site are © Sven Zellner. For a listing, please contact us.
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The Pennsylvania State University | This page was last modified on Friday, July 11, 2008
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