We know, however, that we cannot guarantee safety. Participating in an Academic Treks program is an active experience, and with that comes certain risks. Participants engage in a variety of activities from back country expeditions, whitewater rafting, hiking, scuba diving, sailing, sea kayaking, home stays and horseback riding to traveling in taxis, working with construction tools and other activities. Participants and their family members need to understand that travel and engaging in outdoor adventure activities in a foreign country, often in the wilderness, involves inherent or other risks and dangers that can lead to injury, property damage or even the loss of life. These risks cannot necessarily be prevented or controlled and can include anything from unpredictable weather to recreational and travel risks. Even well managed outings and experienced guides are subject to the forces of nature and the possibility of accidents.

Academic Treks participants learn to respect these risks and to evaluate risks as they gain new skills. We talk about how to evaluate and minimize risks and how to make intelligent decisions when learning new skills. Participants understand that they share in the responsibility for their own safety and the safety of others on the program.