The Heart of Aquatics: UC Davis’ Student-Centered Approach
Visitors to the UC Davis Recreation Pool (Rec Pool) are greeted by a vibrant hub of activity, offering everything you would expect from a top-tier university aquatic facility. From lap swimming and swim lessons to Triathlon Club practices and competitive men’s and women’s water polo, the center is a dynamic environment that meets the diverse needs of its community.
At the core of the Rec Pool’s success lies a commitment to student development. The facility operates with a majority student staff—approximately 90 individuals—who manage operations with an unwavering focus on safety, trust, and team cohesion. This unique setup not only ensures smooth day-to-day functioning but also fosters an environment where students can grow professionally and personally.
Building Bonds Through Responsibility
One of the most notable aspects of the Rec Pool is the social and professional growth it promotes among its staff. Student employees quickly form strong connections through the shared responsibilities of ensuring patron safety and adhering to strict operational protocols. Clear communication and timeliness are key pillars of their roles, instilling a sense of accountability and teamwork that extends beyond the workplace.
The importance of aquatic survival is a cornerstone of the center’s mission. Free swim lessons for UC Davis students highlight the center’s dedication to fostering water safety skills. Witnessing individuals overcome their fear of water and learn to swim is a deeply rewarding experience for both instructors and staff, creating a palpable sense of purpose throughout the facility.
Training Lifeguards for Leadership
Lifeguard training at the Rec Pool is a rigorous program designed to cultivate both technical proficiency and leadership abilities. Quarterly audits keep lifeguards on their toes, with unannounced drills simulating aquatic distress scenarios. This ensures that staff remain prepared to act swiftly and effectively in emergencies.
Beyond emergency preparedness, lifeguards are trained in supervisory skills, such as providing constructive feedback and leading their peers. These experiences equip them with transferable life skills that prove invaluable in their post-graduation endeavors. Leadership, confidence, and adherence to a chain of command are among the primary professional attributes students gain from their roles, whether as cashiers, swim instructors, or lifeguards.
Diverse Interactions and Lifelong Skills
The Rec Pool’s diverse patronage—spanning all ages and backgrounds—offers student staff the opportunity to develop exceptional communication skills. Monthly training sessions ensure that staff remain sharp and up to date with safety protocols, while the emphasis on peer-to-peer feedback fosters a culture of continuous improvement and accountability.
Equipped with CPR and first aid knowledge, student staff are trained to identify and respond to individuals in distress. This heightened awareness of their responsibilities creates a deep social bond among team members, who often study and socialize together off-shift, further enriching their university experience.
A Culture of Joy and Recognition
Work at the Rec Pool isn’t all serious business. Staff enjoy a culture of joy and camaraderie, whether through arts and crafts during slow periods, after-hours water polo games, or rock-climbing outings at the ARC. A lanyard-bead reward program celebrates individual achievements, while monthly departmental recognitions honor excellence across the board.
The Rec Pool offers a unique workplace for students eager to embrace rigorous training and constructive feedback. Adapting to changing lifeguard regulations and frequent trainings requires a positive attitude and a willingness to engage with a diverse community. Strong communication and teamwork skills are essential for success in these roles.
A Gateway to Growth
The UC Davis Rec Pool is far more than a recreational facility; it’s a transformative space where students develop essential life skills, form lasting friendships, and gain valuable professional experience. By balancing a serious commitment to safety and training with a vibrant culture of joy and recognition, the center provides its staff with tools that extend far beyond the pool. For those ready to dive in, the Rec Pool offers an unparalleled opportunity to grow, lead, and make a meaningful impact.
Special thanks to Kyla Schnitter, Assistant Director, Aquatics & Youth Programs, and Jocelyn Morgan, Aquatics Coordinator, for sharing their insight and expertise on this topic.