At Western, the Recreation, Exercise & Sport Science (RESS) program is built on the belief that the best way to learn is by doing. Through community engagement, students move beyond the classroom to apply their knowledge in real-world settings- gaining confidence, building professional skills, and seeing firsthand the impact their work can have on others. This hands-on approach not only deepens learning but also prepares graduates to lead with empathy, adaptability, and experience from day one in their careers.
From working directly with community members to leading wellness initiatives and supporting youth programs, students gain real-world practice that strengthens both their knowledge and their confidence. These opportunities not only prepare students for future careers but also allow them to make an immediate impact in the Gunnison Valley and beyond. Here are some of the wellness programs our students participate in:
Wellness Elevated is one of our community outreach opportunities, giving you hands-on experience designing exercise programs and helping clients improve health, strength, and mobility. You’ll work directly with clients, building confidence in your ability to make a real impact in clinical and community settings.
Design meal plans and host workshops on healthy eating, meal prep, and grocery shopping, strengthening your expertise in sports nutrition and community outreach. You’ll learn how to communicate complex health information in accessible ways, preparing you to promote healthy habits across diverse populations.
Work with local schools to develop and deliver physical education lessons, helping kids stay active while refining your instructional skills. These experiences give you the tools to manage classes, motivate students, and adapt physical activities to different age groups and abilities.
Partner with Gunnison Elementary School and Gunnison Parks and Recreation to organize and lead youth physical activity programs, applying the CDC’s Whole School, Whole Community, Whole Child model to promote overall wellness. You’ll learn how to plan engaging activities, support social-emotional development, and encourage lifelong healthy habits in young learners.
Collaborate with faculty, health professionals, and community leaders, establishing valuable connections for future internships and job opportunities. These relationships, built through hands-on experiences and mentorship, give you a strong foundation as you launch your career in health, fitness, or education.
The hands-on opportunities in Western’s RESS program give students a head start on their professional journey. By leading community fitness classes, supporting wellness programs, and collaborating with local partners, students work through experiences that will translate directly to the workplace. These projects strengthen leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills, which are qualities employers seek in every field. They also provide actual achievements to put on a resume, from program development and client interaction to teamwork and project management. RESS students graduate not only with a degree but with a proven record of real-world impact and career-ready skills.
Here are just a few of the real-world benefits:
The best way to get to know Western—and our Recreation and Exercise & Sport Science programs—is to see them in action. Schedule a campus visit, tour our wellness and training facilities, and meet with a professor from the program. You’ll experience the supportive, hands-on environment where future health and wellness leaders are made.
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