IRR Heads to Alaska

Every spring semester, a group of IRR students goes on an expedition for the semester. Last year, the group had to come back early from Malawi due to COVID-19. Since the pandemic is still in full swing, modifications had to be made to this year’s expedition. Instead of going overseas like usual, they headed for the arctic temperatures of Alaska. This is IRR’s first cold weather expedition and opens opportunities for cold-specific rescue techniques to be taught. 

On Jan. 13, 20 students, two TA’s and Kalie and Andrew Saunders gathered for a final briefing. They reviewed their mental readiness for the trip; everyone was level green: great and ready to go! Pastor Rich stopped by to pray and wish the group well and Kim Canine (Vice President of Student Life) gave them Kind granola bars to represent the kindness of Union and IRR spreading to Alaska. After finishing the briefing and going over the general itinerary for the day, all that was left was to pack all the gear into the suburbans.

It takes a lot of gear to go on this trip since they have to be able to stay warm and safe and cook for themselves. Of the five black suburbans (FBI vibes anyone?), two of them were dedicated solely to gear. The other three were mainly to transport students, but the trunks were still packed! 

I asked a few of the students going on the expedition what they were most looking forward to on the expedition. Anna Hakes said, “I am excited for all the medical clinics and for all the amazing views from the different hikes we will get to go on. I’m also really hoping to see the aurora borealis.” 

Josh Reyes-Meiring, likewise, is eager. “Over this trip, I’m excited to put myself and my gear to the test! I’m also looking forward to getting to know my fellow IRR majors much better, and furthering my relationship with God as we represent his character to others.” 

Mattie Mundall enthusiastically said, “We’re going to have some incredible experiences and get to do things that not many people get to do, but what I’m most excited for is the Iditarod. Being the medical team for this famous and intense dogsled race is truly a one-in-a-lifetime opportunity and I can’t wait to be a part of it!”

Several students and IRR graduates came to see the group off. Rick Young took a final group picture and waved goodbye to each suburban. Great adventures await them and we look forward to the stories they’ll have when they return.

Jade Covel is a senior

religion major

from Topeka, Kan.