Ever see posters around campus advertising whitewater rafting or backpacking trips with OEO? Well, meet Kylee Martens, ’14, president of Outdoor Emory Organization (OEO)! This Chemistry major especially enjoys running and skiing is the master when it comes to outdoor activities and making time to hang out with friends. Read up on her adventures and see how you can get involved with OEO!
Her Campus Emory (HCE): When did you first become involved in OEO?
Kylee Martens (KM): I first became involved in OEO during my freshman year. I went on a Whitewater Rafting trip in September with my roommate and met awesome people who became my friends through the trip. After Rafting, I attended OEO meetings throughout the year and went on a few other trips. After my freshman year, I decided to take a more active role in the organization by joining the Executive Board, which I’ve been a part of since.
(HCE): What is the basic layout of each trip?
(KM): The basic layout depends on the type of trip. Typically, we lead trips like waterskiing or skydiving and book through an outfitter. One or two leaders plan the trip, contact the outfitter, and advertise to Emory students. We usually run day trips each weekend throughout the year but occasionally we may have an overnight or weekend trip planned. We meet on Saturday or Sunday morning on Emory campus, drive to the location, spend time in the outdoors, and return back to Emory later that day, with some stops for food in between!
(HCE): Do you think you’ll continue with outdoor adventures after graduation?
(KM): Definitely! I’ve always loved the outdoors and would love to continue to be actively involved in outdoor activities after graduation. I hope to meet other people similarly interested in the outdoors after I graduate.
(HCE): What’s the most exciting part about each trip?
(KM): I think the most exciting part about each trip is meeting new students interested in outdoor activities! Each trip always attracts different people so I love meeting new people and spending the day with them outdoors. It’s fun bonding over the outdoor activity and making new friendships through OEO.
(HCE): How often are the trips, and how can Emory students get involved?
(KM): We generally run one trip per weekend. We have weekly General Body Meetings on Wednesdays at 6pm in Harland Cinema. We always have free pizza and it’s a great way to meet other OEO members and find out about upcoming trips!
Make sure to be on the lookout for OEO flyers on campus!