When I first arrived at the airport to be picked up by COBS, I had no idea what to expect. But when I arrived, I almost immediately found my place amongst my peers. Every day was an adventure. I gained a new perspective of myself.

I learned a lot of new things like how to tie a tent and I worked on getting better at things like working in a group with different perspectives and ideas.

It was all difficult but I was able to push through it and can look back and say, 'I did that.' This not only trained my body but also my mind, and to have a self-reflection to try to find myself and who I want to be in the future.

Completing this course has given me the self-confidence and assurance I feel I need to return to school this year.

I learned that I am worthy of self-love and that I am strong, physically and emotionally. I learned how to advocate for myself and to express my emotions in a healthy way.

What has become my biggest takeaway from my Outward Bound journey is the importance of compassion. The world needs compassion.

I had so much fun and got to know the rest of my home state. Opportunities like these are really helpful, it gives me a chance to explore and learn new things. I also got to know myself. The mountains helped me understand that life is too good to be true and have to go for it.

Even though this was definitely a difficult experience, I think it’s something everyone should do.