Today we're proud to present the last of three essays from a summer ICO trip out to Aspen, Colorado:
Last year I recall coming home with the news that the Sierra Club was giving a couple of Pritzker students the opportunity to attend one of their multi-day outdoor trips. I never imagined that I was going to be one of the final three students chosen to participate in this once in a lifetime opportunity. I have to admit that I was afraid because this was going to be my first time away without my parents. I had to prepare myself mentally and physically for this trip, but all the work paid off and this turned out to be an unforgettable experience.
We flew out of O’hare on July 26th, 2014, the flight lasted a little over three hours. Upon arrival to Colorado our flight was not able to land right away due to heavy rain and strong winds. Luckily we were able to land safely and embark on an unforgettable journey. A journey that I had the privilege to experience with two other classmates and the best chaperone: Sean.
The first two days we stayed in Aspen to let our bodies get use to the high elevation. On Monday the work begun, we met up with Linda and had breakfast. After breakfast we went to our first campsite to clean the area. We stayed for for about three days. There we got to meet all the other people who were going to be part of this project. We had people come from California, Pennsylvania, and other cities. We had a great group of people and with great teamwork we were able to do an amazing job. There were days on which it rained, but even with the rain we all maintained a great attitude.
I made new friends and I hope to be able to keep in contact with them.
I made new friends and I hope to be able to keep in contact with them.
For me seeing a bear for the first time was the highlight of my trip. Luckily the ranger was able to scare him away. Apart from the bear we also saw a moose and I was not aware of how much damage a moose was capable of causing. Once again this has been one of the best trips I have been on. This trip was possible thanks to Ms. Lincoln, Pritzker, The Sierra Club, Sean, and Linda. Sean you are a brave person, to have embarked on such a journey with three teenage boys from the city. Thank you for putting up with us and most important helping us get ready for this trip.
