Written by: Brynna Rao, Media & Marketing Manager
8 days, 30 lb backpacks on our shoulders, and many new firsts for all of us.
Students from Canyon School have been waiting nine years to go on course with Outward Bound Costa Rica as part of their 8th grade class trip. Seven students and one chaperone arrived on base in mid-May to embark on an indescribable experience hiking, rappelling, ziplining, and exploring the wonderful people and vistas of Costa Rica.
This particular group of Canyon School students will stick with me as it is my first time out on course since joining the Communications team in February 2017.
Between snapping photos and climbing the Red Hill, I put pen to paper to remember some of your best moments and something each of you can take back with you. I hope you all remember your time here and that you will take as much from this experience as I have. Thank you for your company and for taking a dive into adventure with us. This is for you…
You have the unique ability to lead, not by force or intimidation, but with compassion. You were tasked with leading your classmates the day of the most difficult hike of the entire course: the solo hike. Although I was separated from you most of the day, I noticed you were trying to keep the group together and keep everyone hydrated. You weren’t overbearing and you weren't demanding. You were looking out for everyone. You were empathetic and compassionate. There is a strong leader within you. Don’t let your fears hold you back from overcoming challenges. Never doubt your abilities and don’t let an overwhelming challenge paralyze you. Let it drive you. You are an incredible young woman!
On the hike, you pushed yourself more than you thought possible. Prior to our last leg of the journey, I wasn’t sure if you would be able to continue given your pre-course injured ankle. We were all looking out for your safety and well-being, so we didn’t want to push you. We were all were so impressed that you were determined to finish the hike. I so admire your perseverance and that it didn't even seem like an option in your mind that you wouldn't continue when we woke up that morning. I know it was tough, but I am blown away by your determination. You are such a gifted speaker and writer. It’s no wonder that you write many of your school plays!
Your excitement and determination to be outdoors and get moving was incredible to see. You were the first to be ready every morning, and you are the only Canyon School student this year that actively tried to speak and learn as much Spanish as you could. I felt so happy when you asked me how to say a word or phrase. Your curiosity can take you out of your comfort zone and the knowledge and experiences you will gain from that will take you far in life. Never lose that gift. Don't forget to lead with confidence. Thank you for keeping me grounded and witnessing the only goofy selfie I took while I was sweating buckets on our lunch break. You are a great buddy to be around.
You are a warrior! Every time I looked up, you were leading the pack on the hike. You see a challenge in front of you and you are fearless. You tackle everything in front of you with such force and will. Your forward thinking will take you far in life, but don’t forget to be mindful of others. Act with compassion and be confident in yourself. Don’t second-guess yourself on what you know. I can’t wait to see you learn more adventure sports, especially taking on more surfing lessons. You were the only Canyon School student this year to go out second and third rounds of lessons with Carlos. I see more surfing in your future!
You jumped at the chance to be in the duckie, and you successfully got yourself out of a literal jam on top of a rock. It was such a gift to see the big smile on your face and see you laughing through the challenging rapids. You are a natural leader. Your energetic personality is the strongest out of your entire class, which is both a gift and a trait of which to be mindful. Remember to take a breath and let others lead for a change. Lead by example. The best leaders empower others with a voice and teach them how to lead. Look for the nurturer in you and act with empathy.
I have witnessed your caring personality for only six days, and I already know you are an amazingly spirited young woman. Your mindfulness of others is something we should all strive. On the hike, you stayed back to walk with others and you even helped one of your classmates by lifting her pack up to aid her in conquering a steep hill. Your thoughtfulness makes you a special kind of leader. Don’t hold back your inner warrior for fear of judgment or criticism. Lead with your strong compassion and empathy for others and continue to sing through your fears. Mauren loved hearing your beautiful voice at the top of the waterfall!
My entire time out on course with you, I experienced many instances where I thought to myself, “I am so impressed by Zoe.” I was blown away by your strength throughout the hike and your flawless rappel down an 80-foot waterfall. I remember standing at the base and your declaration that on a scale of 1 to 10 your fear level was at a 2. To be honest, I didn’t believe that to be true. But you proved me wrong in volunteering to go first and effortlessly gliding your way down as water rushed from above. Myself, Diego, and your classmates were cheering so loudly for you. You are stronger than you know. Take that with you forever.
You were not only a chaperone on this trip, you became a good friend. I will cherish the moments we laughed together, especially when they involved shenanigans like waking up to Diego walking straight into a glass sliding door at 6am. You have a curious and lovable spirit. I enjoyed seeing you intently converse with our homestay families about their own personal experiences living in Piedras Blancas and learning about local mischievous animals by flashlight with Lupe. Thank you for your company, and I hope our paths cross again. A special thank you to my colleagues and our instructors on this course, Diego, Mauren, Molly, Carlos, and Bailey.
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