Perspective from a new AL

Hey everyone!

I’m Riley, one of the co-editors of Outcroppings and one of the Outing Club's newest leaders! I am so excited to be a part of such an awesome club and I can’t wait to see what the future holds for the NHOC.

After attending the first trip sign-ups of Fall semester one Tuesday night in September, I immediately knew that the Outing Club was something I wanted to be a part of. I felt inspired by the energy and enthusiasm about the outdoors that radiated from the room that Tuesday night.

Fortunately, I made it on LT the following semester. Leadership Training weekend was a great experience in which I was able to meet and bond with a ton of other leaders and start to learn the ropes of becoming a leader myself. Among many other things, I learned that the NHOC is filled with countless wacky traditions, professional GORP critics, and talented story-tellers. Although the Outing Club is known for the fun and unique trips they lead, I also learned that being a leader is really more about making a connection with participants and facilitating a friendly and welcoming environment. Since then, I’ve realized that this is probably my favorite part about the NHOC – its inclusivity and its ability to appeal to all types of people, whether they have hiked all of the 4000 footers or have never stepped foot on a trail. I love that the Outing Club is rooted in creating an enjoyable outdoor experience for anyone and everyone.

I have yet to lead my first trip, but I am already brainstorming ideas for next year! After the club’s Leadership Summit at the last meeting of the semester, I am feeling excited for the future and inspired to lead some rad trips. I am also looking forward to seeing the club grow and evolve over the next year, as I learned at the Summit that we all have some great ideas for improvements within the club.

Lots of love,

Riley Steward (: