Revised version:
Being close to nature and living under a tent of emerald skies was a welcome change to Vancouver's downtown lights. I'll never forget that final night atop Mount Garibaldi; not for the beauty of the moonlight hitting the midnight Earth, or the stars which fell within arms reach. No. I'll remember being part of the 45-person circle of hikers, peers and friends, gathering to express our gratitude for one another.
Hiking up Mount Garibaldi was one of the most arduous things I've had to do in the Duke of Edinburgh program. Despite my mental and physical preparation, I was still blindsided by how strenuous it became to put one foot in front of the other. Over the four days, I was consistently reminded of Sisyphus, hauling my 42-pound backpack to a destination that never seemed to get any closer. Yet, this physical strain was nothing compared to the guilt which swam through my mind. I was hyperaware of the fact that I was slowing down the entire group. All I could do was continue my lethargic pace and pray that no one was disappointed in me.
At the end of each program expedition, our group forms a circle and each individual is given the chance to say their thank-yous. Standing side-by-side, we were all reminded of our nighttime bathroom buddies and stuck-in-the-mud rescuers. I was absolutely enthralled by our exchange of words, and as it reached my time turn, I knew exactly what I would say. I thanked everyone for their patience and encouraging words. I thanked them for their nurturing smiles and sweaty hugs at the end of each day. I thanked them for never leaving me behind. I'm sure that no one was surprised by what I said - I, however, was surprised by what they had to say to me. They returned my heartfelt words, and more importantly, let me know that my fervent determination to succeed was never disappointing.
A teacher once told me that "one of the best ways to learn is to take risks and experience life outside of your comfort zone," and this is something I've learned to embrace through the support of my school community. It's difficult to challenge your fears and overcome adversity, but having a strong community makes all the difference. When you know there are people to catch you if you fall, a risk no longer seems daunting, but rather exciting and inspirational.
Bowdoin has me excited to explore all of the diverse knowledge in this world. I want to continue taking risks, and I know that at Bowdoin, the community will be there to help me through my failures and celebrate my triumphs. But it's a two-way street, and I know that I will always be there to help others, too; I am ready to make my contribution. By sharing our strengths and determination, we can make a community work. My passion to discover life is intense, and I want to be at a school with people who can show me different ways to realize these ambitions. Without a doubt, Bowdoin is this perfect place.
Rhonette May
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