I would like to show appreciation to you for the opportunity of allowing me to go on this course. I learned a lot about myself, the outdoors, and about companionship while on this course.

During my 21 day course I faced a lot of challenges. Backpacking was a little complex because I had a 60 pound backpack on. Even though it was complicated I learned a lot. I learned new skills and it was a new experience for me. I enjoyed every moment of my course. Rock climbing was the most difficult because I am terrified of heights. At first I refused to rock climb or repel but the only way that I would get over some of my fears is if I try to do the things that I fear. At the end of the day I was very pleased that I did it. I never thought that I would climb a mountain but when you gave me that scholarship I knew it would be the first time. Outward Bound helped me realize what I am capable of doing things that I thought I could not do. I was so proud of myself. I now view a lot of things differently then what I use to.

Canoeing was amusing at times. Through out the days on the river I felt very nauseous. I was scared to get flipped from the boat. I always like to be in the front because I could see more of less where we were going. Our instructors were awesome they taught us a lot. They also let us play games on top of the boat and they let us jump from a mini cliff. At that time when everyone was jumping off I was still in my boat with my partner but then I felt an urge to jump off to. My partner and I just tied up the boat and climb up ready to jump. I had a really good time canoeing and rock climbing.

My crew members and I got along very well. Our instructors were very hilarious we had two males. We had responsibilities that we had to do through the day. We all had to take turns doing each task but there were some things that I tried to ignore. I always like to be one of the cooks. My favorite meal was the chili and rice that I made every time we had to get more supplies. Everyone had something that they were good at. We all supported one another when one of us had trouble. This whole experience was great I had an amazing time.
Thank You,

Annabelle Matos