Hi there! I'm assuming most people interested in reading this journal
already know me, but anyway, here is a little info about me and my
reasons for undertaking the Appalachian Trail.
Me
I grew up in South Carolina, then spent my undergraduate years at Duke. From there, I moved out to California to pursue my
Master's at UC Berkeley. I'd graduate with the end goal of
practicing civil engineering. After graduation, however, I hiked the entire Appalachian Trail. This was the best opportunity I'd have to accomplish a goal that had been in
the back of my mind for several years.
Motivation
I would be lying if I said I love being outside. I'm just fine inside or
outside. I don't really get stir crazy. Now, I do love being outside in a place I love.
On top of the list of places I love are the mountains, specifically the
Blue Ridge. It's been that way as long as I can remember.
My sophomore year of college, my girlfriend at the time introduced me to
the Appalachian Trail and told me that every year, people try to hike
the whole thing in one go. They're called thru-hikers, and she
wanted to join their ranks after college was over. I was infected by
this idea too, so about three and a half years later, I embarked on the journey.
I was drawn to this kind of adventure because it allowed me to be
self-sufficient and because it had a very clear instruction manual: you
walk. Real life is filled with goals that have a thousand different
approach paths. The Appalachian Trail, or A.T., is exactly one path. I
craved that kind of simplicity, just for a few months.
Awesome!
ReplyDeleteAdventurous!
ReplyDeleteAaron,
ReplyDeleteI think I know your grandfather in Asheville--Dale York. I admire what you are doing. I wish I had done it myself. Your blog is interesting. At my age, one can only imagine how great you must feel about the actual accomplishment.
Good Luck.
I hope to meet you sometime
Mike Morris
keep it up aaron!! you never cease to amaze me with your accomplishments!
ReplyDelete-cousin mike (ohio) =)