It has been my plan to move to Colorado for quite some time now, although I didn’t imagine that my ticket to Aspen/Snowmass would be via an internship with Challenge Aspen, teaching adaptive skiing and snowboarding. It’s been six weeks of training and working with Challenge Aspen and I could not be happier with every moment I’ve experienced, from meeting the other interns to having my first one-on-one lesson with participants. Each opportunity I’ve experienced has amazed me more than I ever thought it could.
The first few weeks of training were intense, but it continues to pay off as time goes on. I am primarily a snowboarder, but with all the clinics and being on the mountain every day I was able to pick up skiing again, just like riding a bike. I’ve also received training and education on adaptive skiing, which I find fascinating. The effect that skiing has on all types of individuals with disabilities, and their persistence to keep going beyond all odds, is incredibly inspiring.
When the Tennessee School for the Blind came for their senior class trip, it was such a rewarding experience to be able to work one-on-one with a participant and bond over these life-changing experiences. Some of these kids had never even been on snow and I was amazed by their courage, determination and all-around positive attitudes. My experience with Challenge has been amazing thus far and I can’t wait to see what the rest of the season has to hold.
Written by: Spencer, Winter Intern 2014-2015
