Letting the Trip Take Us: One Expedition, Four Different Journeys

Abstract

This Senior Expedition Proposal created and submitted by seniors Jenn Beckler, Maeghan Farnham and Aaron Stone, compiles the research and clarifies the intentions of our month-long rock climbing expedition in the Southeastern US, in adherence to SUNY Plattsburgh's Expeditionary Studies (EXP) guidelines. Included in the proposal are explanations of Expedition Theory and Planning course requirements; team member introductions and goals with group dynamics, leadership and decision making preparation; logistical preparations including training, nutrition, equipment, budget and risk management plan; and the natural history and climbing culture of three climbing locations with specific itinerary. Beyond executing our Senior Expedition to obtain a bachelor's degree, we consider it our greater goal to gain confidence as climbers and outdoor professionals. Fourth team member, EXP sophomore Alex McLaren completes the team (referred to as we/us/our). In May and June 2014 we will be spending four weeks rock climbing in Red River Gorge, KY; Linville Gorge, NC; and Seneca Rocks, WV specifically to improve our relatively new lead and multi-pitch climbing skills. Certainly at times, the planning--the writing-- seemed a struggle, but in its realization we have discovered how intentional our adventure has become and we can hardly wait to learn where it will take us.