Joe Hemrick used his $3,000 prize to participate in the following adventure:

Adventure Program
Outward Bound Mountaineering Course

Adventure Location
Colorado

Adventure Activities
Mountaineering, backpacking, rock climbing, rappelling, snow and ice climbing

Adventure Duration
23 days

Number of Adventure Participants
30 participants, 10 instructors (divided into 3-5 groups for most of the adventure)

What made you apply for the scholarship?
"A lot of people miss out on doing things when they are young. When I heard about the adventure scholarship and realized how it opened a door for me, I took advantage of it."

What was your favorite activity on the trip?
"My first peak climb up "The Fly". I recorded my name and the date in a capsule at the summit and was proud to be one of the people who made it to the top."

Describe your best day on the trip.
"After an orientation on the first day of my 'solo,' I was left where there was no one near on the mountain. I was alone for 48 hours and had a chance to think without any distractions. There was nothing to read, but I had my journal for writing. I made a gift for one of the members of my group, wrote a letter to myself with 10 goals for the future and had a chance to think about how fortunate I am."

Would you do it again? Why or why not?
"I'd certainly do another adventure. There's always something else to learn about myself and the world around me. Every time gives an opportunity to see what I've learned from the past and set goals for the future."

How has your adventure changed your outlook?
"It certainly opened my eyes to opportunities I can take advantage of. I also realize much more the importance of family and friends."

Advice for potential Adventure Scholarship applicants:
"In applying for the scholarship, be open and honest. Don't try to be something you're not. On an adventure, condition yourself, be prepared for the unexpected, and trust yourself and your instructors."