In short, the trip was lifechanging. I was able to experience many radically different things from backcountry hiking to urban life. I was learned a variety of new skills, including some professional skills like leadership and teamwork as well as practical skills such as wilderness camping and first aid. I loved meeting and working alongside…
Tag: Alex Mittereder
There and Back Again: Delhi and Agra
I had mixed feelings about leaving Mussoorie and spending time in Delhi and Agra. On one hand, I was excited to see new places and experience urban life again. On the other hand, I knew that these cities would be much more crowded, suffocatingly hot, and make me anxious. I was also sad to be…
Key Lessons and Insights from the Trek
What are the key lessons that you learned about yourself from the trekking experience? The trekking experience taught me a lot about myself, especially when it comes to relearning old outdoorsman abilities and my interpersonal skills. I faced many old and new challenges that any hiker or camper would be familiar with, such as starting…
The Journey Through the Himalayas
The trek through the Himalayas was everything I had hoped for and more. It was intense, and physically and emotionally strenuous; at the same time, it was the most magical and transformative experience of my life. The long drive to the trailhead was even an adventure alone. The narrow, winding road and near misses of…
Discussion on Cultural Differences, Leadership, and the Long Trek
Have you confronted different cultural and ethical norms while abroad? How are you managing working with these differences? During my time in India, I have noticed some cultural and ethical norms that are different to my own. The biggest and most jarring difference would certainly be the traffic. I already mentioned this in an earlier…
A Test of Strength: Reflections on the Shakedown Hike
The shakedown hike was absolutely phenomenal. We had such spectacular views every step of the way. I think it was a great introduction to backpacking, living in a tent, and a good test of our physical ability. Although I could manage the weight of the pack, I was struggling the whole time with how it…
Lessons in First Aid, Leadership, and Linguistics
Over the past few days, we have been taking Wilderness Advanced First Aid (WAFA) classes and talking about how to respond to a crisis. These classes have been very intense and sometimes difficult. We have also been practicing how to respond to crises like massive bleeding, an unresponsive person, and mass casualty incidents. Although I…
Jam Packed Days and Setting Personal Goals
The past few days have been a total whirlwind. Our days are jam packed with classes, games, and activities. It is a bit overwhelming at times due to the sheer amount of energy I need to dedicate to stay awake, let alone learn in each class. I am still adjusting to the time zone, lack…
A long journey comes to a start- arrival in Mussoorie
We have arrived! I have no idea what the total travel time was from Pittsburgh Airport to the Hanifil Center in Mussoorie, but it certainly felt like ages. However, I still felt that the journey was pretty enjoyable overall. I was able to watch a few movies on the plane and I did a fair…
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