I have always loved outdoor education because it’s a break from the classroom.

I love the camaraderie we share, as we face challenges and victories together as an intimate group. Those victories could be as small as finding the right rock to scramble up or that huge, breathtaking moment when we reach the summit, towering over the trees, rocks and paths we’ve taken together. The bonds formed are unique and special because they’re not likely to happen at school in our busy lives.

One of the best moments during each trip is the time we spend reflecting on the trip, alone with our thoughts, no distractions. At first, four hours seems like forever, minutes passing by like hours. Today, technology constantly surrounds us, but the solo forces us to be completely immersed in nature and the beauty that surrounds us.

Outdoor education trips are a really good place to find yourself — to figure out who you are and what you want to be.

Being there with your classmates is a unique bonding experience you can’t get in the classroom. My freshman year it really helped me meet new people. I’m still close friends with the people in that group.

It also teaches you how to be alone and survive by yourself. You’re in the middle of the wilderness with no technology. Taking a few weeks off and going into the wilderness is not something you can do in normal life. It’s incredible that Chadwick provides that.

I survived a week in the wilderness. I can do anything.