Our second outing of the program year started off chilly and stoic, reflecting both the weather and our students’ moods. However, within moments, carefully planned games sparked laughter and trust, transforming the 22 apprehensive teens into a positive peer group, engaged with each other and the day ahead. Soon, they set out for a day of activities designed to build on this newfound cohesion. They played disc golf relay races on the grass, balloon hacky sack, and high-energy games of capture the flag on the sand. Thanks to a generous donation from Jersey Mike’s, everyone enjoyed sandwiches during a picturesque picnic under the shade of beautiful oak trees. After a special closing circle, the students said their goodbyes, already talking about the next trip! Days like these are an important step in the bigger picture of what we do. Our mission-driven program focuses on helping students reach their goals by fostering their self-esteem, self-actualization, communication, and decision-making skills. Next up is a three-day “Intro to Backpacking” trip designed to continue the journey of belonging, self-discovery, and achievement.

3 Days at Eno River State Park

Day 1:
6:00 AM: Road Trip! The day starts with picking up students from New Hanover, Pender, and Brunswick County. The van fills with nervous chatter and excited whispers. The students, aged 13 to 18, are a diverse group—some have never camped before, while others boast over 30 trail days. Snapshot: teens talking and not on their phones. 10:00 AM: Arrive. The air is crisp, and the scent of pine trees invigorates our spirits. At the trailhead, we pack our backpacks and ensure everyone has what they need. We hiked one mile to our campsite next to the rushing river. The day is filled with activities to build the students’ self-esteem and insight. Educators deliver lessons on packing a backpack, knot tying, water purification, feelings identification, and backcountry cooking. 6:00 PM: Burritos, Fire, Summit, Bed. As the sun sets, we gather for Summit, allowing the students to process the day’s events, deepen their insights, and connect their discoveries to their personal lives. After days like today, sleep is a well-earned prize.

Day 2:
7:00 AM: Backcountry Breakfast. Lots to do today, including three important lessons: Expeditionary Mindset, Communication 101, and Map Reading. The students document their experiences in field journals, blending structured notetaking with personal reflection. The new students learn from their more experienced peers, fostering a sense of community and mutual support. A 2-mile-long day hike allows for time by (and in) the river, rock skipping, and daydreams about the big fish. Maria, an 18-year-old dual-enrolled student and in her 4th year with Education Without Walls is helping with the younger group. She works closely with the NCOAE instructors to corral students and teach lessons. Her presence is invaluable, bridging the gap between new and experienced students. 5:30 PM: Personal Pizzas, Fire, Summit, Bed. Tonight’s Summit brings the students even closer together. Led by Maria’s prompt, “What brought you here?”, the students have plenty to talk about.

Day 3:
7:00 AM: Tent & Trail. On the final day, we continue to practice the skills learned. Tents are taken down, bags packed, cook crew makes oatmeal with brown sugar and walnuts, leaders of the day orient the map, water crew purifies, and off we go. 1:00 PM: Road & Home. The closing circle is always a mixed bag of sweet and sour but as we prepare to leave the park, I can see the transformation in each student. They emerge from the treeline with a renewed sense of self-worth and lighter stride. 3:30 PM: Drop off. Numbers and user tags are exchanged, profiles are liked, plans are made, hugs are shared. Next up: Camp out – Surf & Dragon Boat Racing in June!