By Nya L., FINS Program Alumni
My name is Nya and I’m going to speak on a few things I’ve learned in the course of 20 days. This course was something that was definitely out of my comfort zone, but it’s also an experience I am grateful for and will remember for the rest of my life. I am a person who always makes the most of every situation and looks at things with the best perspective possible. Because of that, I made the decision to push myself (as I always do) and graduate this course with honors.
One of the main reasons I wanted to go on course was not only to challenge myself, but because of the picture it would paint to others. This will look good on resumes, college applications, and even job applications. Outward bound is well known, and according to my instructors, people will be impressed; to me image is everything! I want people to look at me and see greatness and power! I want to be wanted in teams, clubs, schools and in the future, certain jobs. Before this course started, I would ask people, (especially my mom), “How will this change anything?” “What will this do for me?” …Whew… What didn’t this experience change? How didn’t it benefit me?
This program really helped me find myself and taught me so much I didn’t know. I’ve learned a lot in such a little time, honestly…I can’t believe it. Not only did I learn to survive in the woods, but things about myself I never knew existed in the first place.
Strength… I don’t even know where to begin with strength. During the whole 15 years of my life, I never knew how strong I was. Not physically, but mentally. I’ve gotten through this course like my family and I knew I would, but what I didn’t expect was to leave carrying as much strength, power, bravery, courage, and faith as I did.
As for the course tools, I feel that I will use “step backs” the most to avoid arguments and stay calm to avoid conflict. It still shocks me that I’ve conquered everything that I have. I’m proud of so much, but I’ve got to say what I’m proudest of is how well I did overall on course. I didn’t lash out or catch an attitude, not once. I’m also very proud of how I pushed my team to reach for their highest potential and not give up EVER! They knew they could come to me for absolutely anything, problems, advice, or even some love.
I love each and every one of these girls and will never forget this experience where I’ve drastically grown. I thank my family, Outward bound, the lord and finally MYSELF for making the decision to take this opportunity to change my life and turn me into the bigger and better person I am already becoming. I promise to continue to grow and glow, and I wish all of you the same.
