aLUMNI
Spotlight
Alumni Spotlight
ALUMNI
SPOTLIGHT
Our travel was characterized by spontaneous waterfall excursions, slot canyon exploration, and plenty of splash wars. I witnessed a clash between the wilderness and mankind at the Hoover Dam, sparking thoughts on ethics and conservation that I had never considered. Genuine conversations with others allowed me to be vulnerable and authentic. Despite being new to the outdoors, my mentors and peers believed in me,and thus, I believed in myself. For the first time at USD, I truly felt a sense of belonging.
At the end of three days, I turned back towards the highway. My gaze flicked between the road ahead the rear view mirror. The OA community was still there, as well as many unforeseen opportunities. My alternative radio station shifted toward the static stress and monotonous drone of the academic forecast. I checked my side mirrors. The twists and winds of the path behind me were intriguing. So I whipped a U-turn.
On the highway, we speed along thinking that someday we will make it to our destination, and that will be it. “When I decide my major!” “When I graduate from college!” “When I pass my LSAT!” “When I own a house!”Through my time at OA, I came to find that the highway doesn’t lead you there. And the backroads don’t either. No, there isn’t an omniscient destination where I will arrive and have achieved everything. But there is a journey. You can get lost in highway hypnosis, or appreciate the zigzag miles.
I gained confidence through the challenges of each trip, overcoming fears and apprehensions. I probably hold the record for most mistakes made at OA- from losing keys at 10,000 feet to vomiting as a result of dehydration- but OA supported me and offered me a chance to learn from my errors. OA shaped who I am today and inspired me to become an instructor for the National Outdoor Leadership School (NOLS). In this position, I hope to continue to provide experiences in which students gain knowledge, courage and a sense of belonging. I want to encourage students to embrace uncertainty, learn from mistakes and seek new challenges. I hope to introduce them to the backroads in a way that they are inspired to explore new terrain and stay curious. This is how I am enjoying the journey.
Jessie was reunited with fellow 2016 classmate and OA guide, Jerrick Lee, on a month-long instructor development course in wyoming this past summer.
(Yes, This photo was taken during the summer!)