Created by DeMarquice Phillips, Mistica Lopez and Ignacio Pardo
The trip to the Colorado Outward Bound School course helped us, as Baker NERDs develop real grit to find our strengths and weaknesses.
Throughout the seven-day course, we were faced with challenges, including not having access to a shower or toilet. We were definitely forced out of our comfort zones as we were forced to leave behind our electronic devices and everyday comforts. A few of us who are claustrophobic truly stepped out of our comfort zones when we had the opportunity to go into a very narrow cave -- about 9 inches wide.
RESPONSIBILITIES DURING THE TRIP
Meals were based on select food products. For example, some of us were responsible for setting up our own movable kitchen and cooking for the whole team. Jobs were divided into four groups -- setting up groovers (portable bathrooms), setting up tents, preparing meals and unloading the rafts. Having chores to be responsible for during the trip help us increase our ability to manage our time and work as a team.
“The Outward Bound course has opened my eyes to so many different aspects of life that I never noticed … It has changed my attitude into one that will some day change the world for the better.”
-DeMarquice Phillips
OUTCOMES OF THE TRIP
After facing many challenges during the week, we returned to the BU campus feeling like we can accomplish anything. We definitely felt better prepared to face future obstacles when the fall semester starts. Having had this experience made us appreciate our comforts we have at home and overcome any fears we may have in order to truly succeed.
“From now on, I will not doubt my ability to overcome any obstacles and instead I will hold onto the grit that Outward Bound helped me realize I had.”
-Kimberly Villegas
