Like every trip that lasts over 2 weeks, this one was no different. Living with the same people for 3 weeks taught me a lot. From the skills I developed on the waters of Tamales Bay and the American River, to the resilience that I had to muscle up to climb up to over 8,800 ft in elevation with a heavy pack on my back. My goal for this trip was to practice stepping up and stepping down. In a cutthroat world, it's easy to stand your ground and speak up. However, it is just as valuable to know when to be quiet and listen. While practicing that during the trip, I fell into a spot where I could do both: sit and still be present, and stand up without speaking over others. I also improved my communication skills and my ability to adapt. Through ETC, I have created many lasting memories and friendships. We shared many laughs and now have inside jokes. I went back to my old high school to say hi to some students I had met and gotten to know on this trip. Our reunion was 3 girls hugging in the middle of a doorway saying "GRR" and one on the brink of tears. If I had to choose 1 thing and 1 thing only to take away from this trip, would be the people I had met. Everyone had a different personality and everyone brought out a different side of me. That group was a special one and joking about sleep talking and losing a lot of Tajín virginities was kind of our thing.

During our self reflection times, I would look back on my actions in and out of this trip. It offered me a lot of clarity but also open a lot of questions. The mind is full of nooks and crannies; I'm glad I got the chance to dig into mine and start asking questions.

To all the people who made this experience possible or any trip for another youth a reality, I am extending this thank you. The world is our oyster and it takes a little motivation, help, and guidance to get us out there. You may not ever find out the specifics of the impact you have made, but I hope that you can understand that you have made one.