As a complete beginner, my first skiing experience at Craftsbury was both challenging and deeply rewarding. Coming in with no prior exposure to skiing, I was initially uncertain.
However, the organizers ensured a seamless and thoughtfully coordinated trip from transportation to programming (allowing me to focus entirely on learning and enjoying the experience).
Skiing proved to be far more demanding than I anticipated, requiring not only physical endurance but also adaptability to weather conditions and precise technique. Unlike running, which I have long been comfortable with, skiing pushed me outside my comfort zone and required a greater level of trust, communication, and balance.
I quickly learned that falls can happen from every direction from 3, 6, 9, and 12 o’clock which really showed me how challenging and patient my volunteers were/are. Luckily, my Garmin watch wasn’t tracking those early attempts while I was figuring out how to get up the hill and come to a complete stop on the way down. It was also a humbling moment when I watched a group of young kids fly up a hill and make a sharp 90-degree turn at a speed I could barely process with my limited vision. It definitely made me feel my age a bit!
What stood out most were the volunteers. Their patience, encouragement, and willingness to spend hours guiding me through each step of the learning process made a lasting impression. Through my conversations with volunteers at the trip, I came to understand that their motivation stems from witnessing the growth and progress of participants, which in turn inspired me to reflect on my own competitiveness and personal development. I joked that my best move was the “sit” command which is the command for falling in the soft snow!
Equally meaningful was the strong sense of community. I felt respected, included, and constantly supported in an environment where no one was left behind. The camaraderie among participants and volunteers alike created a welcoming and engaging atmosphere that elevated the entire experience.
Although I do not have opportunities to ski in Queens, New York, I would gladly return to Craftsbury. The friendships, support, and genuine sense of belonging I experienced made this one of the most memorable and impactful trips I have had with any organization!