How it Began

The summer after high school, I was selected to attend a fully-funded outdoors camp in West Virginia.  At this camp, I was able to go mountain biking, climbing, and backpacking for the first time in my life.  Although always having a great time, learning new skills in the outdoors may be a challenge. These experiences taught me that I can always push myself harder to reach my goals. I particularly remember my first day rock climbing.  I was over halfway to the top of one of the climbs, but I didn't see how I was going to make it any further.  When I asked to be let down, my teammates refused, and continued to coach and encourage me until I reached the top.  I will never forget the feeling of satisfaction and accomplishment while coming down the side of that mountain.