Cate, what’s one thing that brings you joy as an outdoor educator?
Witnessing students discover strength they did not previously know they were capable of is endlessly fulfilling for me. I love being a part of empowering students to step outside their comfort zones, while simultaneously introducing them to new ways of seeing both the world around them and their place within it. One of my favorite moments as an instructor was watching a student descend the final stretch of Mount Shastina, yelling “that was the hardest thing I’ve ever done!” with the biggest smile on their face. This moment captures a feeling I’ve witnessed over and over again as an AT instructor—a feeling that keeps me coming back.
What’s one of your favorite memories from last summer?
My favorite memory with last summer’s Leadership Summit students was bushwhacking to a remote campsite in the North Cascades. It was an unexpectedly long, physically demanding hike that pushed everyone outside of their comfort zones. The student leaders of the day brought incredible determination and positive energy that kept spirits high. The students found so much joy amidst exhaustion. It became not only a great orienteering lesson, but an even more meaningful bonding experience that brought our community together. There are so many great moments within that journey that I’ll never forget!
When you’re not adventuring with AT, what keeps you busy?
I’m usually teaching! I work with high school students in a city-semester program in Burlington, VT, where we dig into what it takes for a community to operate and thrive. I care a lot about youth empowerment and creating space for young people to find and share their voice. I also teach farm-based education to elementary students and dabble in transportation planning in the city. Outside of work, you can find me running, biking, or swimming around Vermont!
Got any pro tips for new instructors looking to crush their first summer?
Oooh, yes! I’d say curiosity and flexibility are some of the most important things you can bring to ensure a fun and successful trip for everyone. Remember that every group of students is different, so be open to adapting your style/mindset to truly meet them where they are at. Also, a “yes, and” mindset goes a long way (even though it may not appear so at first glance, yes, you probably do have time to veer from the plan for a spontaneous field frolic or river dip). Additionally, create as much space for student leadership and responsibility as possible—give them ownership of their experience! And finally, never underestimate the morale-boosting power of glitter.
What’s one tip for students to come fully prepared for the summer season?
Know that Adventure Treks is a team sport! Be ready to step up both as an individual and as a team player to support the community you will create. This might require you to jump outside your comfort zone, but remember that the rest of the team will have your back. Trust yourself! Trust your team! And trust that together, you can create the conditions for a whole lot of fun.
What’s your next big adventure?
After this school year comes to a close, I am going to explore beyond Vermont for a little bit. I’ll trip lead with Adventure Treks for the summer, and then the plan is to travel for a bit before pursuing more experiential teaching opportunities.
Tell us some fun facts about you—what would surprise us?
- I am a triplet.
- I have biked down the coast of Portugal.
- I have seen a volcano erupt!
- I have been inside an industrial slaughterhouse.
- Thus far in my life, I haven’t come across any foods I strongly dislike.
- I’ve studied in a rural Malawian village.
- Alongside teaching, I also work in transportation planning in Burlington and am passionate about advocating for clean, accessible transportation and food access.
