A certain department on campus is pushing students out of their comfort zones and into Iowa caves.

The Outing Centre rents out equipment for outdoor activities and plans trips, such as spelunking or discovering caves, throughout the year.

Daniel Swan, the center’s outdoor adventure coordinator, touts the Outing Centre as “one of the best-kept secrets on campus.” Unfortunately, students are slow to discover it despite its many offerings, he said.

Derek Simpson, student manager and a junior biological sciences major, found it during his sophomore year. Simpson said the Outing Centre offers many opportunities that students are missing.

The center offers discounted rates to NIU students and staff for sports equipment such as footballs, basketballs, volleyballs, cross-country skis, ice skates and camping gear. People without NIU affiliation also can rent items for double the list price.

Swan said many people are scared of trying activities like rock climbing and canoeing. However, he assures those interested that “safety is [the Outing Centre’s] primary focus.”

Simpson said he advises students to get out of their comfort zones and challenge themselves to grow as people.

For example, Swan said rock climbing is a physical and mental workout because a climber needs to think before moving.

James Hill, a junior mechanical engineering major, went on a trip to Utah last May with the Outing Centre. The group hiked, climbed and mountain biked for 11 days.

Hill’s favorite activity was climbing. Trip participants were given two free days, which Hill spent climbing.

“I enjoyed every moment of it,” Hill said.

Hill said students can find many fun activities with the Outing Centre. However, some trips have been canceled because of a lack of interest, he said.

Along with equipment for various outdoor activities, the Outing Centre offers clinics or workshops on activities to help prepare people for their adventures.

Swan said students should “get away, try something new and experience life.”

For more information about the Outing Centre, visit www.outingcentre.niu.edu or the information table in DuSable Hall.