Amazing Semester Backpacking!

I went on the Spring Semester in Patagonia and it could not have changed my life more. I started the semester never having backpacked before, only to leave with strong wilderness travel skills, improved Spanish and environmental ethics, and a community of friends and instructors I knew would follow me into my life beyond gap. The environmental studies curriculum and cultural exploration in the front country allowed me to connect with the spirit of Patagonia, while the leadership and community courses taught me how to be a better leader and team member, in and out of the wilderness. I cannot speak highly enough of the instructor team, some of the most wonderful people I know, and the logistics and risk management that left me feeling safe and happy at all points during the trip. Overall, I am leaving more confident in myself as a leader and prepared to take on college and life beyond.