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Brand’s semester in Patagonia took place for 79 days alongside 16 students and 10 instructors. Before heading into the mountains, the participants spent time with a local family sharing stories and learning about their culture. During the next 30 days, Brand and his coursemates traveled 36 miles and 11,482 feet of elevation during the mountain section.
Students developed a broad range of leadership skills that consisted of communication that helped them cross rivers and snow-covered glaciers. Building a cohesive environment in the mountain section was a key foundation in dealing with bad weather, for example, when wind speeds forced them into snow caves. The students developed competence in their technical and leadership skills, which led them into a three-day independent travel section without instructors.
After a successful first section, the students traveled to southern Patagonia for their sea kayaking expedition. Brand covered 149 miles in dynamic water conditions testing his new sea kayaking skills. Each student became the leader of the day and was in charge of the decision making throughout that day. The students stayed motivated during this section and were inspired when arriving at Glaciar San Rafael.
Ending the days with environmental discussions, the students became interested in all aspects of the NOLS curriculum and finished the course as one team. The students succeeded on all aspects of the trip and took this opportunity to develop strong leadership skills that will guide them through future life pursuits.
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