This summer was split into two different but connected experiences. First, I went on a backpacking course with Solid Rock Outdoor Ministries (SROM), and later I worked with SROM again through a sales and marketing program called REVelry. Both taught me lessons that I’ll use with me moving forward.
With SROM, I had the chance to hike the Grand Canyon and then spend a few days at a place called Vedauwoo. It pushed me in a lot of ways, both physically and spiritually. I walked away with two main lessons. The first was to just take the next step. When you’re on the trail, the climb can look overwhelming, but all you can really do is take the step that’s right in front of you. Before you know it, you’re at the top. That same idea can be applied to life, school, and future goals.
The second lesson came from Romans 8:24–25. It reminded me that real hope means trusting God when things are uncertain. I’ve always liked to plan out my future and feel in control, but I learned that I don’t always get to have all the answers. That’s where faith comes in, trusting that God has a plan even when I can’t see it.
The second half of my summer was with REVelry, which is a program that pairs college students with small or startup businesses to help them with marketing and sales. It’s a cool setup because students get real-world experience while businesses get innovative ideas from a talented and young student, adapt a new use of AI tools that students are using, teach future entrepreneurs real world experiences, and benefit from a cost-effective SDR intern.
Through REVelry, I was not just a participant, but as someone helping them grow. Our group of 15 students, all working for other companies, went through Sandler sales training and worked together to build skills in prospecting, cold calling, lead list generation, and marketing. It was a challenging environment, but being in a cohort made it easier to push each other and learn as a team. For me, it was cool to be able to give back to the same organization that had just made such a significant impact on me in the wilderness.
Looking back, both parts of my summer connected in a way I didn’t expect. SROM taught me lessons about faith and perseverance, and REVelry gave me the chance to use those lessons while learning professional skills that will help me in my future career.
Overall, this summer taught me that growth happens when you take on challenges. Whether that’s climbing out of the Grand Canyon or picking up the phone for a cold call. Both experiences pushed me, and both helped me take the next step forward. I am so thankful for the experiences SROM and REVelry gave me to grow in all aspects of my life!
