Outward Bound is an international leadership program that started with British Merchant Marines in WWII. Today, Chesapeake Bay Outward Bound School is privileged to offer this exciting opportunity to Midshipmen, in partnership with United States Naval Academy’s LEAD Division, Center for Experiential Leadership Development.

This 15 Day wilderness expedition is a learning laboratory for leadership and character development, bringing leadership theories to life through practice. While canoeing, backpacking and rock climbing, you and your crew will take risks as leaders, learn through reflection, and engage in meaningful feedback sessions with peers and instructors.

DETAILS

DATES: JUNE 13 - JUNE 22, 2022

DAYS: 10 days

$0 (Fully Funded)

Expedition Objectives:

  • Together with your crew, successfully manage the physical and emotional risks inherent to backcountry-travel
  • Practice situational leadership styles that guide your crew to set and complete goals
  • Demonstrate advanced interpersonal skills: communication, compassion, effective feedback, self-awareness
  • Actively engage in service to others

Expedition Itinerary:

  • Appalachian Trail Backpacking & Rock Climbing
  • Potomac River Canoeing
  • Dolly Sods Wilderness Backpacking
  • Baltimore City Service
  • Personal Challenge Event and Graduation

Tuition:

This course is fully funded for Midshipmen by the United States Naval Academy (course valued at $3,000)

Additional Course Elements:

Solo
Around halfway through their expedition, students participate in a reflection period called 'solo.'  Students are assigned individual campsites, within a designated area, and are provided with all necessary gear, food, water and skills to enjoy up to 48 hours alone in the wilderness.  Although secluded, solo-sites are within hearing distance of other group members and instructors for safety.  Students are made aware of their instructors’ base camp should they need to contact them for any reason, and instructors monitor students closely during this experience.  Solo is a great opportunity for students to relax, recharge and reflect on their experience.

Service
Service projects are often integrated into Outward Bound expeditions through coordination with land managers, conservation groups, government agencies or social service agencies. While on expedition, students are encouraged to practice service to the environment and their team by sharing responsibilities and following Leave No Trace ethics.  Outward Bound expeditions are designed to cultivate a service-ethic and, thereby, to inspire students to return home as agents of change in their communities.  This expedition will culminate with two days of service alongside a veteran-run non-profit in Baltimore City.