When can I visit?

We are available for field trips during the academic year (mid-September to late May) on weekdays from 9:00 am - 4:30 pm. We do not hold field trips during University closure days or during University finals weeks.

Field trips are scheduled on a "first come, first served" basis. To assure that your potential field trip date is available, please try to book, at least, four weeks in advance.

Availability is limited and we will fill up!

If you are interested in bringing a group of students to campus during the summertime (June - August), please contact the Program Coordinator.

How long will we be on campus?

Our average field trip lasts 4 hours (9:30 am - 1:30 pm), however, we can accommodate most time frames. A four hour field trip would likely include two hands-on activities for the students, lunch on campus, and a campus scavenger hunt.

How much does it cost?

Defining Your Path field trips are free of charge! 
You are responsible for the cost of transportation to the University and the cost of lunch for the students, if applicable.

What are the group size limitations?

Due to limited available space on campus, our capacities differ by day:

Mondays - Thursdays: 0 - 75 students
Fridays: 0 - 125 students
For groups larger than 125, please contact the Program Coordinator.

What will we do on campus?

We collaborate with over 35 different departments and programs on campus to create meaningful experiences for your students! We often work with the College of Engineering, the Marriott Library, the Department of Astronomy & Physics, Lassonde Entrepreneur Institute, and many others. 

Field trip activities range from science and engineering lab tours and demonstrations, to dissections and creating hand-made books. Participate in political and social forums, meet with faculty and students to receive in-depth knowledge on a wide array of subjects. Experience campus life from the Marriott Library to the Student Union, discover all of this on one campus!

Planning a Visit

First determine the educational goals of your field trip. Consider the department, subject, and topic you wish to explore. Then,

Please note that reservations are NOT confirmed until you have received a confirmation email. In order to properly plan a field trip and coordinate with the University's departments, please plan a date 4-6 weeks in advance of your field trip request.

Contact Program Coordinator Amery Kongphouthakhoun if you have questions or need assistance in planning your visit.
Email: amery.kong@utah.edu

Office Phone: (801) 587-2997

Moblie Phone: (801) 864-794 

 

We are currently booked for Spring Semester and will resume field trip requests in June 2023! 

Interested in volunteering during a field trip?

You must be affiliated with the University of Utah to volunteer during a Defining Your Path field trip. If you are staff, faculty, or a student at the U, we would love to have you involved!

Faculty/Staff/Graduate Students:

We are always looking for educators that are interested in connecting with the K-8th grade community! If you would like to direct a lesson, demonstration, or tour for a group of students, please contact the Field Trip Coordinator, Amery Kongphouthakhoun, for possible outreach opportunities! DYP lessons generally last 45-60 minutes, and are always housed on campus. The Field Trip Coordinator fulfills the logistical requirements (classroom reservation, student release waivers, scheduling, etc.), and you, as an educator, just needs to show up to present to the students. We ask that your lesson has a hands-on element that connects to your curriculum. If you would like to teach, but need assistance developing a lesson, the Field Trip Coordinator is happy to assist with curriculum development.

Undergraduate Student Volunteers:

Do you enjoy working with kids, and have some extra time in your class schedule? Are you studying Primary/Secondary Education or Early Childhood Development, and want some practical experience? As a volunteer with DYP, you can lead school groups as they navigate campus, participate in a variety of activities with the youth, and even give lessons and inspire young students to pursue higher education! You can volunteer for one field trip, or as many as you'd like! If you are interested in volunteering, please contact Amery Kongphouthakhoun at amery.kong@utah.edu.

 

Disclaimer:

Defining Your Path Volunteers are screened appropriately, as outlined in the University of Utah Youth Protection Policy. Volunteers are not permitted to be alone with minors at any time during the field trip. The University of Utah is committed to protecting minors participating in University programs. If you have concerns about any misconduct in connection with this program/event, please contact the University’s Office of Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action at 801-581-8365.