The summer of 2024 was unlike any other for a group of STEP College-Prep scholars who embarked on a life-changing leadership expedition to the wilds of Alaska, thanks to our 20-year partnership with NOLS.
For three weeks, STEPPERS from high schools across Arizona challenged themselves physically and mentally, built lifelong friendships, and discovered strengths they never knew they had. The Alaska Leadership Expedition builds a recognition that these students can tackle any challenge if they believe in themselves and work hard, which is a valuable asset when transitioning to college.
Their reflections on the experience paint a vivid picture of adventure, growth, and resilience.
Danna A.
Desert View High School
Danna began her journey with a mix of excitement and nervousness. She had been waitlisted for the expedition and was thrilled when she finally got the chance to go. "I felt very excited to be taken off the waitlist and be able to go!" she shared. Though she had traveled before with her soccer team, this was a new kind of adventure, one that required both physical and mental preparation.
Danna faced significant challenges, especially when it came to kayaking—a daunting task for someone with a fear of water. "Kayaking was the hardest part of the whole expedition. I didn’t like it because it was very exhausting and draining," she admitted. Despite her fears, Danna pushed through, driven by a desire not to let her team down. "I proved to myself I could be brave and grow from that."
The expedition also taught Danna valuable life lessons. She realized her capability to survive independently and discovered the importance of efficiency and hard work. "I went in with a list of things I lacked and came back with answers as to how to improve them," she reflected. Her experience in Alaska strengthened her leadership skills, confidence, and courage, which she plans to carry forward into her senior year and beyond.
Kelly V.
Copper Canyon High School
Kelly was also filled with excitement as she prepared for the Alaskan expedition. Having traveled before, she was no stranger to stepping out of her comfort zone, but this trip was different. "The first night that I was in Alaska I definitely was a little bit more scared and nervous, but it felt good to be outside of the city," she recalled.
The hardest part of the expedition for Kelly wasn’t the physical challenges but the emotional toll of missing important family events back home. Yet, she found solace in the natural beauty of Alaska and the strong bonds she formed with her fellow scholars. One of her favorite memories was watching a whale flip its tail in the ocean while she and her friends laughed and talked under a tarp at Paradise Beach.
Through the expedition, Kelly learned she was more capable than she had ever imagined. "I realized that I am independent and more than willing to live away from home," she said. The experience reinforced her dedication and perseverance, qualities that will serve her well as she prepares for college.
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Enrique R.
Rio Rico High School
The opportunity to travel to Alaska came at a time when Enrique needed it most. Overwhelmed by personal and academic pressures, Enrique found hope and excitement in the prospect of the expedition. Although he had traveled before, this was his first time venturing so far from home and without his family.
The journey wasn’t easy. Leading his group through rough conditions and kayaking 12 miles to their next stop tested Enrique’s limits. But the physical and mental challenges led to profound personal growth. "Alaska taught me to have more confidence in myself," Enrique shared. He also learned to appreciate the beauty of nature up close, a new experience for someone who had previously admired it from afar.
Enrique’s time in Alaska transformed his outlook on life. He gained courage, improved his social skills, and discovered a newfound appreciation for the simple things in nature, like watching birds on the beach or listening to raindrops on the trees. "The relationships you develop are some of the best you'll make in your teen years," he said, reflecting on the deep connections he formed during the expedition.
Emile K.
Tucson High
Emile approached the Alaskan expedition with curiosity and excitement. Having traveled outside of Arizona before, he was eager to see what Alaska had in store for him. The journey, however, presented unexpected challenges—most notably, the constant daylight of the Alaskan summer and the relentless mosquitoes.
Despite these difficulties, Emile found joy in the experience, particularly during a memorable moment at Shop Bay Glacier. As they kayaked into the beach, Emile began singing, and soon, everyone joined in, lifting their spirits and strengthening their bond. "It was so beautiful... it just brought everyone's morale up," he recalled.
The expedition taught Emile to push beyond his limits and embrace leadership roles, both at home and at school. He also gained confidence in his ability to navigate social interactions and form meaningful friendships. "This trip will challenge you to become the best version of yourself," he reflected, adding that the experience left him with a new perspective on life.
A Journey of Growth and Discovery
The 2024 Alaskan Expedition was more than just a summer adventure for these STEP College-Prep scholars—it was a journey of self-discovery and personal growth.
Each student returned home with newfound confidence, leadership skills, and lifelong memories. Together with their NOLS instructors, they learned to face their fears, embrace independence, and appreciate the beauty of the world around them.
As they continue their academic journeys, the lessons they learned in Alaska will undoubtedly guide them toward future success.
This year marked the 20th Anniversary of the STEP/NOLS partnership and the 40th Alaskan Expedition. Thank you, NOLS! We couldn’t do it without you.