Inaugural Backpacking Trip 11th Grade to White Mountains

Brady Wheatley Head of Upper School

Upon reflection, a junior shared their biggest take-away from this year’s inaugural junior backpacking trip; “I am stronger than I think, and the difficult experience will only make me stronger.” Coming out of the height of the pandemic, we have seen students nationwide with increased resiliency in some areas, and increased vulnerability in others. We examined the nationwide trends affecting adolescent development after periods of isolation and less independence and worked to proactively create opportunities for targeted growth.

When redesigning the junior class trip to better fit the RHCD mission of inspiring each other to discover our full selves and use our wisdom for good, we sought an experience that would be a once-in-a lifetime opportunity to truly know thyself.

The brave juniors went on a five day backpacking trip in the White Mountains this May with extremely challenging conditions, and have reported tremendous growth and pride as a result of the trip. While the conditions made this even more challenging than we had predicted, as one student shared “the trip worked.”

Students shared their gratitude for the “new appreciation for the outdoors,” “the collaboration between all of us,” “creating bonds even though it was hard,” “separation from society and mirrors,” the “reality check” that the trip provided, stronger and new friendships, and “the experience I am walking away with and understanding the importance of taking a break from technology.”

The sense of pride that many students have shared is palpable, with students realizing they possess the “ability to push through the difficult times to reach the rewarding moments with my friends.” I am looking forward to seeing these juniors continue to grow as they reflect and process their experience and strength, and to the new tradition of this life-changing opportunity.

I am most proud of…

• “Finishing the hills”

• “Going on the trip in the first place”

• “How close my group became”

What I found most challenging was…

• “Pushing through the first night”

• “Uphill”

• “The rain”

What I am grateful for is….

• “My new appreciation for the outdoors”

• “To come back and see family, friends, teachers, and warm weather”

• “That I did it”

What wisdom/advice would I share …

• “Don’t already have a bad attitude, you could love it!”

• “If you are struggling speak up for help”

• “Enjoy it!”

One lesson I will take with me ...

• “Making a fire”

• “If you think you are at your end point and want to give up, don’t. Push Yourself. You got it.”

• “Some people do eventually change”