Just recently I was lucky enough to get to go on a 3 week Outward Bound - Mind, Body and Soul Course.  I was grouped with 11 strangers, and spent 21 days on countless adventures and created memories that'll last a lifetime. 

I was in Huriwhenua 706, and during my time there I went on adventures such as tramping, coasteering, sailing, rock climbing, high ropes, solo, and much more. This incredible opportunity challenged me both mentally and physically, and made me realise that my limits extend far further than I thought. 

I applied for this scholarship to challenge myself in all aspects; physically, mentally and socially, and I feel that no other scenario could have challenged me quite the way that Outward Bound did.

For me specifically, this experience had a huge impact socially on me, and being able to create all these new valuable friendships from across the country has meant a lot to me.

This course allows you to defy what your mind thinks you're capable of, and get to partake in activities that aren't always readily available and convenient in our everyday lives. 

Never would I have thought that I could run a half marathon, sail a boat, or traverse across a rock face with the ocean up at your waist, but when you're thrown into the elements and forced to do it, you just get it done!

As someone who would never have considered this to be an opportunity for me without the assistance of a scholarship, I encourage you all to apply when the school offers the support.

Although I’d consider myself to be a pretty active person, it is not imperative in order for you to make big accomplishments and complete things out of your comfort zone. The lifelong friendships, the accomplishments, and the skills that you gain from this course make all of the challenges so worth it, and there are so many aspects to the programme that mean that it can be everyone's thing.

 I’d like to express my gratitude towards Armstrong Motor Group, Dunedin and the school for making this opportunity available to me, and allowing me to have this “once in a lifetime” experience.