Yesterday our Fall 2015 Outdoor Leader Semester students arrived at base to start their 65-day adventure in Costa Rica and Panama. Five students are joining us from across the United States to learn about the philosophy of Outward Bound and earn seven internationally recognized outdoor certifications. “This course will be a great opportunity for me to get more in touch with my inner self,” said Evan Parker from Charleston, South Carolina. “I’m so excited to get out on the river,” added Meaghan Gouldrup from West Tisbury, Massachussets. “I’ve done raft guiding before and now I’m excited to go somewhere new.” During their course the students will not only push their limits with leadership training, hiking, whitewater rafting and more in Costa Rica, but will also travel to Panama to get scuba certified and learn about the local culture. “I’m most excited about getting scuba certified,” said Kirby Nassetta from Arlington, Virginia. “I want to work in marine conservation later this year and [getting scuba certified] will help me with this goal.” Two students will be earning their advanced scuba certification while on course. Ben Waters of Fairfax, Virginia said he is most excited about this opportunity. “I like fish and under the water is a different world,” he said. “I want to be able to dive in more environments added A.J. Galindo from Alexandria, Virginia. “Getting my advanced certification will allow me to do this.” We wish all our students the best of luck during the rigorous and rewarding Outdoor Leader Semester. Be sure to visit our blog for more student updates and our Facebook page for photos during their course experience.