Field Program

1. It's hard.
It's good to challenge yourself physically and mentally. It's the best way to learn about yourself and really know yourself.

2. To feel uncomfortable.
By putting yourself in situations that you're not used to, you'll do the most growing.

3. To open your mind.
There is so much ignorance in the world... People know so little about each other. Go and meet new people, expose yourself to opinions and values that differ from your own. Everyone comes from such different backgrounds, you might just learn something you didn't know. Doesn't mean you have to agree with those views and values, but we can never learn enough about understanding and tolerance.

4. Muscle!
Sure, they were sore a lot of the time, but it's the easiest workout routine I have ever followed. You don't really have a choice; you gotta get up that hill (or mountain), you gotta swing that tool. So you just do it...

5. To learn lessons in resilience. (Not just physical resilience).
People are always going to say stuff that you don't agree with or that might annoy or upset you. But guess what: you don't have to let that bother you. You can decide how you want to respond and react. You'll learn not to let that noise ruin your days.

6. It's a great time for self-reflection.
You've got no service half the time, so you might as well! One of my crew leaders, Ford, would often get us to think of who we were before MCC, who we are right now (during), and who we want to be after.

7. Nature man, it's just the best.
This job allows you to be outside all. the. time. It just instantly makes you feel better. Not to mention that literally everything is absolutely stunning and breathtaking, and the wildlife encounters are beyond incredible... So go breathe in some fresh, natural air!

8. To escape.
We can all benefit from escaping everyday stresses. You literally don't need to think about anything other than the physical labour when you're out working in the field. Even just living outside, you learn that nothing else has to matter. Everything is so stripped back, and it's a really freeing feeling. You learn to appreciate and care about the little things we so often take for granted.

9. To be a part of something bigger than yourself.
It's truly humbling. Sounds cringy and sure, most days you're shoveling dirt, asking yourself, What am I doing? This ain't making any difference... But it does. It's so important, and not enough people know that.

10. To have an absolute blast.
Above all, it's an awesome experience where you meet, work, and live with some wonderful humans.

I struggle to believe that anyone could ever regret this kind of experience.
So, my advice? Just do it.

Thank you, MCC, thank you AmeriCorps. You have taught me so much, and I am beyond grateful. :)