Walkabout Philosophy
Walkabout Philosophy
Walkabout's exposure to students is not limited to the length of a single trip. Because Walkabout instructors are also classroom teachers, subtle lessons can be learned and profound relationships can develop at a natural pace during a student's entire Baylor career. We provide the opportunity for self-discovery and the chance for students to develop relationships with their classmates and teachers.
One of the key elements of Walkabout's success and longevity has been our ability to create situations where students spend time with their teachers outside of the classroom context. It is one thing for a student to learn from a hired rock climbing guide on a Saturday afternoon, but it is quite another to have your algebra teacher take you backpacking on the Appalachian Trail, or your English teacher take you surfing in Panama, or your history teacher take you Trekking in north India. The shared adventure and perspective create a profoundly different student/teacher relationship.
College prep school can be an extremely competitive environment, whether in athletics or academics. Walkabout provides an unorthodox environment, completely devoid of the pressures of competition. We provide opportunities for failure and success - not winning or losing. The struggle is often internal; leading students to discover untouched aspects of their character.
With the exception of our Freshman Trip, which is primarily a tool for introducing students to their new classmates, Walkabout is not a required activity. Students sign-up for Walkabout trips that interest them without being forced to participate. If a student on a Walkabout trip is not ready for particular challenge, Walkabout instructors are not compelled to force the issue. We have the luxury of letting student interest and confidence develop at a natural pace.
We offer Baylor students valuable time to relax. Our trips provide time for decompression and reflection, giving students the chance to connect their educational pursuits at Baylor with the larger world. Walkabout views wilderness not as an escape, but as a limitless classroom. Walkabout's extended classroom can be an integral part of a Baylor educational experience.