Student Impressions

Every year WO students walk away from the trip with fond memories, new friends, and a vast array of new experiences. Following are comments taken from student evaluations.

Silliman Crest, Session 2
Silliman Crest, Session 1
Silliman Crest, Session 1
Graveyard, Session 1
Graveyard, Session 1
Triple Divide, Session 2
Triple Divide, Session 1
Mt. Shinn, Session 2
Mt. Shinn, Session 1
Mt. Shinn, Session 1
Mt. Shinn, Session 1

Student 1, Silliman Crest, Session 2

I really enjoyed my experience. I have never backpacked with a big group before, especially with people that I just met, and I think it was the first time I have actually been totally myself. Being in the wilderness for nine days with a group of people who learned to work together and trust one another was an experience new to me, and the supportive atmosphere made me enjoy the trip all the more.

Student 2, Silliman Crest, Session 1

The Wilderness Orientation experience was one of the most amazing things I've ever gone through. The leaders were extremely nice and informative. I learned so much about practical backpacking skills and also about myself. For me there was never really a dull moment and the surroundings provided constant inspiration. I'm so glad that I decided to go on the trip because it was really worth it in every way. The daily challenges gave me insight into my daily life and allowed me to re-evaluate the way in which I live. At the beginning of the experience I hardly knew how to speak to my fellow wosters but by the end we had become the best of friends. We also worked really well together due to the trust that needed to be developed within the group. I truly believe that this experience definitely gave me the confidence I so badly needed to enter college and have a great time. The WO experience definitely changed me in many ways but all were for the better. I now have a new outlook on life and ten new friends.

Student 3, Silliman Crest, Session 1

I first decided to come to WO because transition to college was stressing me out and there is nothing better than a good ten days with nature to cure such a stress. At first I was nervous that I wouldn't fit in with the group but it was totally contrary. My leaders and fellow wosters made me feel part of the group, they made me feel like I was important. I learned a lot with WO, not just how to cook, climb and put up tarps but also to be organized, to work in teams and so much more. Most importantly I learned not to pre-judge things, to take everything step by step. If I were asked what I would change about this experience, my answer would be, "ABSOLUTELY NOTHING." Thanks for everything!

Student 4, Graveyard, Session 1

The WO experience was very unique. I've never been backpacking before this trip and it was interesting. Sometimes, in the first few days, I felt very exhausted and my pack was too heavy. I got used to it later in the trip- "mind over matter." I think the rock climbing day was the best day for me. I wish we could've had a 24 hour solo, but the rain was unpredictable. Our leaders were incredible and very throughout the whole trip; funny, educational, friendly people - all three of them.

Student 5, Graveyard, Session 1

I was really anxious and unsure if I could handle this trip, both physically and mentally. However as the week progressed I became proud of myself that I actually went through with this Wilderness Orientation. The group that was once strangers turned into a bunch of friends that I could trust; not only when rock climbing but also when school started. Right now I have this amazing sense of accomplishment. WO has taught me so much about myself and nature. I've realized that as I enter college what I was in the past does not matter. People do not care what stereotype you fit in high school. I learned that I need to let go of judging and stereotyping people. My group has turned into memorable individuals that I can count on. I've learned a lot about myself, and I am ready to accept the challenge that college will present in my life. Because of WO I am more self-assured and willing to go beyond my comfort-zone.

Student 6, Triple Divide, Session 2

The Wilderness Orientation program was SO awesome. I feel so lucky to have had this experience as a first step into UCSC. The program gave me tons of confidence in myself. I think that because of it I'm going to have an easier time adjusting to a new home and school. I have tons of new friends now at UCSC too, in all different dorms. I feel a lot more connected. The leaders Alisa, Kelly, and Jaime are the best role models ever. They offered such great views on life and healthy fun ways to live. This was one of the best experiences of my life.

Student 7, Triple Divide, Session 1

I haven't had much time to think yet, but WO was definitely one of the very best things I have ever done. It was my first time backpacking, so I was pretty nervous in the beginning about all the unknowns. But the leaders taught me everything I needed to know, and I felt safe. By the end I'd gotten over most of my fears, such as rain and dark, and I gained an appreciation for nature and the Sierras in all its forms, whether harsh or beautiful or both, and I respect it a lot. Having to deal with my fears have me confidence and courage, and I think I will find great success in college because of it. I made some friends and felt comfortable enough to really open myself up to others and make unbreakable connections with my WO group. I feel like a hidden section of my mind suddenly burst open. The solo was a big part of that- I felt so new afterwards, so pure and courageous. I hope that feeling stays with me. WO was the most INTENSE experience of my life- WO magic is real.

Student 8, Mt. Shinn, Session 2

Wilderness Orientation has given me a better chance to prepare for UCSC, especially coming from out of state. It got rid of some of the nerves and provided much information as well as a self confidence. The kids who do this kind of trip are the type that I want to know and just coming to school before doing something like this it would be easy to get "lost." The physical exertion was positive, great way to end the summer. At this point I don't see any ways to really improve the trip, aside from an AC option on the van ride.

Student 9, Mt. Shinn, Session 1

I really am not sure that there are enough words in the world that could describe my experience on "WO. I had so many break throughs during every part of my trip. I think that this trip has really helped me experience my transitions into college, my initial thought about the trip was that if I could do this I could do anything. Now I know it means so much more. When I was at the top of Mt. Flemming I was over come with emotions, I was so incredibly proud of myself. The thought that my legs and feet had brought me and one backpack over and through so much is amazing. All I can really say is that my trip was unbelievable and I would not change it for the world. I am so happy about my trip, I really don't want it to end. I have make incredible friends and memories. I LOVE WO.

Student 10, Mt. Shinn, Session 1

Wilderness Orientation has been an awesome experience for me. It has given me the opportunity to make friends before college begins, allowing my transition to be that much easier. It has challenged me and helped me to realize I can do anything I put my mind to. Since I had never been camping or rock climbing or anything of the sort, I have never been so proud of myself or felt such a sense of accomplishment before. I'd recommend WO to anyone. It's definitely worth it.

Student 11, Mt. Shinn, Session 1

I think that this past week has been the most incredible week of my life. No joke. I was really, really scared about college and mostly making new friends. After one week of incredible challenges and opening up to each other like I could with no one else, I am pretty psyched about college! I get to come to UCSC with 11 new buddies and about 40 other wosters who have gone on this trip also! I think that this amazing trip has given me confidence and even better , helped me make 11 new REAL friends. The games we played in the beginning of the trip helped a lot! Just don't change a thing, it was great! Thank you!