Participating in the Adventure Risk Challenge program over the summer was an incredible experience. Having to start the course in the backcountry immediately made me feel uncomfortable, especially having to live with a group of complete strangers. One day I was in the warmth of my bed, and the next day, I was sleeping on a foam mat in a sleeping bag with the protection of a tarp tied to trees hanging over me. On top of that, I was surrounded by people I have never met before. I had no idea what to expect for the next few weeks, but whatever was in store for me, I begged that it was better than my first night. As the days went by, I grew fond of the backcountry and I adored what nature had to offer. As for the strangers, in an instant, they went from unfamiliar faces to my closest friends. By the end of the course, I no longer looked at them as I did in the beginning. I looked at each and every one of them as family.
Going through many hardships over the course, it gave me an opportunity to learn about myself. Activities such as rock climbing allowed me to discover the tremendous amount of patience and mental strengths that I have. I struggled during rock climbing because I wanted to rush and finish. However, there is much more than finishing the quickest to rock climbing. I constantly battled with my own mind trying to decide the right move. My eyes would deceive me and make me believe that there is an easier way. With loads of fear flowing through my body, my only focus was to reach the top and complete the route. Looking at the bigger picture, there is no easier way to do anything. I learned from that experience that to achieve my future goals there will be many obstacles that I will encounter. On some occasions, I will want to go the easier way. The course taught me to face my fears and that with my newly discovered confidence I can accomplish anything. My desire to be a Health Service Technician in the U.S. Coast Guard has never been greater. Adventure Risk Challenge made it possible for me to strive to accomplish my goals.