Led by Emily Foertsch, assistant director of recreation, the group explored Zion, Bryce Canyon, Capitol Reef, Canyonlands and Arches National Park throughout the eight-day trip.

“One of my favorite memories was our sunset hike to Delicate Arch in Arches National Park,” said Foertsch. “On the way back, we paused on a large rock slab in the middle of the desert to stargaze.”

To Foertsch and her students, it was moments like those that allowed the group to really connect.

Students made lifelong connections and shared countless funny, memorable moments throughout the trip.

Lizzy Davies ’28 described one of the simpler, yet meaningful moments. 
“The second night of camping, all 10 of us played a massive game of UNO that lasted three hours before we had to call it quits. Everyone was laughing, joking and plotting against each other, and it felt like we had been good friends for a long time even though we had just met,” she said.

Students said they felt grateful for how stress-free the trip was.

“The trip leaders are all such kind and understanding people, and they work hard to make sure the trip ran smoothly and to answer any questions and help you out. There is a variety of different types of intensities for the trips, so there really is options for everyone,” said Jessie Auerbach ’28.

More than anything, students said they found peace and connection with the world around them. 

“As an exchange student from Poland, I am only here for one semester, so my time at the university is limited,” said exchange student, Sebastian Wisniewski. “Thanks to this trip, I saw places that I would most likely never have visited on my own, and I met many interesting people. This is huge added value for both the university and my stay here.” 

In Focus