A few minutes into your Outward Bound course, you may think, “I’m nervous. I’m excited. I hope people like me.” A few days into the course, you may think, “I can’t do this. My body can’t do this. I want... READ MORE

My high school experience was mundane and ordinary. I enjoyed my time in school, participated in sports and extracurricular activities, but I wasn’t excelling. My time in the classroom felt mandatory and uninspiring. I was going through the motions to... READ MORE

Each year, high school seniors and young adults are tasked with discovery to find the perfect answer to “what’s next?” Throw a global pandemic into the mix—and the social responsibility to take a stand both with your actions and your... READ MORE

 Life is a journey, and sometimes it can be challenging to find our way. Our Pathfinder course for young adults is an outdoor program designed to give you tools to navigate the challenges and decisions ahead. On a Pathfinder... READ MORE

You decided to take the leap—you applied for a long course. Welcome to the first of many steps taken in courage along this journey. You probably felt the rush of adrenaline flow into your fingers as you clicked the submit... READ MORE

I recently arrived at the Outward Bound basecamp in Big Bend, Texas to embark on a staff expedition. Right from the start, the sun was gleaming. Our crew looked in awe of the mountains that towered around us—the Chisos range... READ MORE

A few weeks ago, I was standing in a circle with five dirt-covered adolescents just outside Marble, Colorado. With Aspen leaves still dripping from the early morning’s downpour, I told the students that the 15-day mountaineering course they had just... READ MORE

The first day of any expedition is nerve-wracking, thinking about the future days together with your crew—the miles not yet traveled and skills waiting to be mastered. You’re apt to see everyone’s true selves, which will be a mixture of... READ MORE

For the families of high school juniors or seniors, or for those with young adults out of high school, the stress of college applications and finding jobs is likely here. Every path leading to life after high school seems to... READ MORE

I remember when I found out my freshman roommate had taken a gap year. I was struck with curiosity and wonder. One semester she sailed the Atlantic Ocean and another she backpacked in New Zealand. Most college freshmen are timid... READ MORE