“When I first came to The Discovery Center, I immediately had that home-away-from-home moment,” said Erica Wiggins, a lead instructor at Philadelphia Outward Bound School (POBS). Wiggins’ Strawberry Mansion roots run deep – both she and her Mom grew up a few blocks away from what is now The Discovery Center. “The Strawberry Mansion Reservoir… READ MORE >
“When I bring Police Athletic League campers to the Philadelphia Outward Bound School, my goal is simply to open their eyes to something new,” says Officer Glenn Haskins, Center Director of North Penn Police Athletic League (PAL). “I want them to step out of the box, challenge themselves, and be ready to absorb what’s coming…. READ MORE >
“Since my first trip in 7th grade, Outward Bound has made a huge impact on my life,” said Grace, a senior from Springside Chestnut Hill (SCH). “Philadelphia Outward Bound School (POBS) has provided me with so many amazing opportunities to meet new people and learn new things about myself. By doing my senior project here,… READ MORE >
“When I was in Middle School, I did two expeditions with Philadelphia Outward Bound School (POBS), where I learned that I really loved being outside, and it’s a huge reason I’m pursuing an environmental career today,” said Teora, a senior from The Philadelphia High School for Creative and Performing Arts. “I’ve known about The Discovery… READ MORE >
Imagine you are leading a group of students on a multi-day backpacking trip deep in the heart of the Appalachian Trail. You’ve spent weeks preparing for this expedition, ensuring an enriching experience for your group. But despite your best efforts, an unexpected medical emergency arises! A member of your group twists an ankle, or worse,… READ MORE >
“Never quit on a bad day,” says Madeline Troyer, a Field Instructor for the Philadelphia Outward Bound School (POBS). That’s the mantra which anchored Troyer as she trekked all 2,190 miles of the Appalachian Trail (AT). It took Troyer 128 days of continuous hiking and camping underneath the stars to walk from Springer Mountain in… READ MORE >
For many, experiential education is not a preordained career path; it’s often found through one’s lived experiences. According to Emily Della Fera, a 29-year old Center-Based Faculty Instructor, that’s the kind of path worth taking. “You learn from the bad ideas just as much as you learn from the good ones,” said Della Fera with… READ MORE >
Minutes after hiking several miles in the wilderness with a 45 pound pack on his back, 12 year old Riehle (“Riley”) is beaming with excitement in anticipation of what comes next. “I’ve never done rock climbing before, but I think it’s going to be really fun!” said Riehle. Not all members of the crew are… READ MORE >