Smith Learns About Wilderness Medicine

Austin Smith, graduate assistant for outdoor recreation in the Arkansas Tech University Office of Campus Life, has earned wilderness first responder certification from Stonehearth Open Learning Opportunities (SOLO).

Smith explained that the certification is about providing potentially life-saving assistance in remote locations.

“It’s being able to provide care when you are any farther out than that golden hour of care,” said Smith. “If you are any closer than that, try to get them to medical help. But if you are farther out than that, it is up to us to provide what care we can.”

Smith, who was already certified in CPR/first aid, said that the SOLO training took his knowledge to the next level.

“I really appreciate having that, and not only knowing what to do,” said Smith. “It’s understanding the different concepts and ways to help people. I learned how to make a splint from almost anything you have. Taking this class will make you re-evaluate what you will carry with you and what can be used in a medical emergency.”

Smith grew up in Fox and attended Rural Special High School in Stone County.

“I am drawn to nature,” said Smith. “I was born and raised going outdoors and living on a farm. I can’t get away from nature. It’s as much a part of me as I am of it.”

He graduated from Arkansas Tech in 2014 and remained on campus to aid in the outdoor recreation program while pursuing his Master of Science degree in college student personnel. He is on pace to receive his master degree in May 2016.

“It’s about giving students the opportunity to go on these trips,” said Smith. “I’ve had many of them come to me and be very thankful for being a part of it. Not a lot of people would think to or have the opportunity to go zip-lining at Horseshoe Canyon Ranch or rock climbing or canoeing and kayaking. We are able to provide students with that opportunity.

“They meet new friends, and that’s what it’s really all about,” continued Smith. “I see a lot of kids glued to their cell phones or TVs, and not that there’s anything wrong with that, but I think it’s good to have something else to do. Some of the best times I’ve ever had were in places where you couldn’t get a cell phone signal.”