Athenian Wilderness Experience

At the Athenian School, we are committed to developing teamwork, self-reflection, compassion, and resilience in our students. Kurt Hahn’s philosophy that “There is more in you than you know” is a critical element of their success in life.
One of the opportunities you will have as an Athenian to practice resilience is on the Athenian Wilderness Experience (AWE). You and a small group of your classmates will explore the beauty and enchantment of either the High Sierras mountains or the Death Valley desert during your junior year. Working together to navigate off-trail terrain, cook group meals, rock climb, and set up camp, we hope you will come to appreciate the freedom from technology, routine, homework, and other responsibilities while learning how to collaborate, problem-solve, empathize, and believe in yourself and others. Twice a year, the campus is reinvigorated by the AWE participants' positive energy, enthusiasm, wonder, self-awareness, and openness. We invite you to participate in the ceremonial end of their adventure to see for yourself the transformative experience that is AWE. 
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