JOURNAL ARTICLE

Thru-hiking and Thriving: Exploring College Student Experiences on the Appalachian Trail.

  • Published In: Journal of Experiential Education, 2023, v. 46, n. 2. P. 161 1 of 3

  • Database: Academic Search Ultimate 2 of 3

  • Authored By: Rohn, Kathy Chau; Conway, Patrick Filipe 3 of 3

Abstract

This study explores how an immersive, self-guided outdoor adventure education (OAE) experience—specifically, thru-hiking the 2,200-mile Appalachian Trail (AT)—influences the development of traits related to college student thriving, which encompasses academic, interpersonal, and intrapersonal well-being. Using a longitudinal phenomenological approach with four undergraduate students who took a semester’s leave to complete the hike, the research found that the self-directed nature of the experience fostered deep self-reflection, enhanced self-efficacy, resilience, and the ability to balance individual and group goals. Participants reported growth in managing challenges, cultivating meaningful relationships, and developing a positive outlook, suggesting that prolonged, student-led outdoor experiences can contribute to holistic college success. The study highlights institutional barriers to such opportunities and recommends integrating self-guided outdoor learning with structured reflection to support diverse student needs.

Additional Information

  • Source:Journal of Experiential Education. 2023/06, Vol. 46, Issue 2, p161
  • Document Type:Article
  • Subject Area:Science
  • Publication Date:2023
  • ISSN:1053-8259
  • DOI:10.1177/10538259221115825
  • Accession Number:163159172
  • Copyright Statement:Copyright of Journal of Experiential Education is the property of Sage Publications Inc. and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites without the copyright holder's express written permission. Additionally, content may not be used with any artificial intelligence tools or machine learning technologies. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

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