In August, the class of 2028 trekked through the High Sierras, cooked their own meals, spent hours in self-reflection, pitched their own tents, and carried all of their equipment on a five-day backpacking trip. 

Every year, sophomores go on a similar trip through Outward Bound, an outdoor education program with a mission to “change lives through challenge and discovery.” It offers Branson students a chance to  strengthen the relationships with their peers, learn survival and leadership skills, and develop a deeper appreciation for the environment.For many students, with technology being strictly prohibited, the trip offered a rare chance to disconnect and fully immerse themselves in nature.

“I enjoyed being outdoors and taking a break from technology and the business of everyday life,” said Lauren Reinhardt ’28. 

Lauren Wood ’28 also appreciated being in nature, especially the beauty of the Sierra Mountains, a location unparalleled by what Branson’s students experience in their day-to-day lives.

“Sleeping outside was a highlight for me because you could see all the stars. I saw 13 shooting stars,” Wood said. 

Many students also highlighted the new friendships they created, as well as the strengthening of existing ones. 

“I think it was cool because you could build connections with the people outside of your friend group,” said Will Zuercher ’28.

While many described Outward Bound as a transformative experience, others, like Sara Trimble ’28, said it wasn’t something they would do again. 

“It was a once-in-a-lifetime experience that, while I enjoyed it, I wouldn’t choose to do again,” said Trimble. 

Despite the challenges, most students agreed that the trip helped them grow and connect as a class.

“I already liked backpacking, so it was fun to do it with people from Branson,” Ben Brash ’28 said. “I feel like I got closer with a lot of people.”