"Sail the Florida Keys for the experience of a lifetime!" reads the pamphlet.

That slogan describes one of many three-credit Exercise and Sport Activity courses co-sponsored by the University and the Hurricane Island Outward Bound School.

Programs currently offered include sailing in the Florida Keys, canoeing on the Rio Grande, wilderness canoeing in northern Maine and cross-country skiing in Minnesota.

The courses combine classroom lectures at the University with a five- to eight-day, on-location experience. Although the courses are open to everyone, they are designed for students and take place during school breaks. The cost for each course varies with the program.

Most recently, 28 participants completed the sailing course in the Florida Keys during spring break.

Bob Ricketts, instructor of exercise and sport science, started and directs the course at Penn State through Continuing Education with the Outward Bound School.

The course, designed to give a unique approach to education, aims to have each student understand and apply the skills necessary to sail a boat. Skills such as basic nomenclature and sail theory, coastal navigation, seamanship skills and cruising logistics are taught.

"I learned a few lessons about consistency and how to learn new things and apply them," said Sam Chaar (graduate-recreation and parks), a course participant. "Everyone had to work as a team and depend on each other."

The course also has a service component that gives participants the opportunity to pay back Penn State and the community, Ricketts said, adding that it also expands personal growth and tests students' limits.

"It's probably the most influential course they'll take in their college career," Ricketts said.

Despite uncomfortable living arrangements and long days, most students agreed that they found the course unique and interesting.

"I've never laughed so much in five days," said Michele Lee (senior-food science).

Sonia Cheng (freshman-pre-medicine) said, "The thing that most struck me was being out on the boat -- it was incredible."

Many students also called the companionship rewarding.

"I had the experience of being on the water with people I never met before," Chaar said. "I made a lot of friends."

Anyone who wants more information about any of the courses and registration can call 865-5141.