Alzar School & Gap

My experience with alzar gap has been super eye opening and such an amazing experience. The balance between adventure and learning about the culture is perfect. I had such a good time with all the students and I felt the instructors were great leaders and people. My favorite part of the trip was all the white water kayaking and rivers we got to explore and go down. We got to go on some many rivers and I had such a good experience. I’m so happy I chose to do this program and would definitely recommend to anyone taking a gap year!

I came hoping to meet others interested in outdoor adventure, gain some Spanish knowledge, and see some pretty places. It was so much more than that. Through the help of our amazing instructors I was able to grow my leadership ability, learn useful outdoor living skills, be immersed in Chilean culture, and all while traveling to breathtaking places. I saw crystal clear glacial rivers flowing straight from glaciers, skies of twinkling stars turn to day, heard only the sound of birds in the woods. It was truly an experience of a lifetime and has given me the tools to continue traveling by myself.

A chance to explore and understand the uniqueness and beauty of Patagonia’s culture and landscapes. River and backpacking trips combined with cultural exchange allows students to see Patagonia in all sorts of lenses. The program is well paced with a great mix of chill time and expeditionary adventure. The length of the trip is perfect as to absorbs Patagonia’s vibe, but also not get too tired by the end of the trip. Also a great way to get introed into outdoor skills. Expeditions are meaningfully and not too difficult.

The Alzar School provided me with real world leadership skills. After attending in the fall of 2015, I have sought out leadership programs at other schools, and none compare. Alzar helped me learn that I have a lot to gain from the knowledge and experiences of others and that asking for feedback is a good thing. I also learned that I can handle extremely difficult situations, especially when others are depending on me. I learned to communicate with my peers through constructive feedback and small group expeditions in the backcountry. These communications skills carried over to my interactions and relationships with friends and family back home, and also in conversations with professionals when searching for jobs. I carry myself taller, trust in my own strength more, and have no fear to ask for help and support from others after coming back from the Alzar school. It is truly a life-changing experience. I conquered my fear of kayaking after years of being horrified of it, and created memories I will cherish for a lifetime. Thank you Alzar!!

Before coming to Alzar, I was hoping to get a sense of independence from my family and the routine that I live at home. I wanted to hone my leadership skills, make lasting friendships and apply my backpacking skills. I also wanted to explore the brand new realms of spanish and kayaking. At Alzar, I learned that I am able to broaden my definition of a leader from just being someone that people liked, and who knew the plan. I am now able to define many other types of leadership other than my own, and work with people to understand where my assets work best. I hope to be a better leader in my own home, communicating and being fair to my siblings, and also doing a good job of helping my parents around the house. Anyone is lucky to experience a semester at this special place.