Event: Journey of Hope North Route 2016
Hometown: Mokena, Illinois
Why did you sign up for this event?
I originally signed up to do Journey of Hope because it combined a little bit of everything I enjoyed. I had really enjoyed the volunteer trips I had done during my undergrad and liked being able to give back to a bunch of different communities. I had also gotten into cycling and really just thought the idea of biking across the country sounded like a great adventure.
Why did you decide to return this summer?
I came back simply because I saw the impact that the trip had on all my brothers. It was the best summer I’ve ever had hands down and wanted to be able to play a part in giving that experience to other Pi Kapps from around the country.
What are you most excited for this summer?
I’m also really looking forward to a few things this summer. Things like reconnecting with our sponsors, those hundreds of volunteers from across the country that not only make the trip possible, but also have their own stories to share. I’m probably most excited to get to see another group of young men experience Journey of Hope and being able to help them achieve something incredible.
What is your favorite memory from last year’s summer event?
There are two days that really stand out to me. One from last year was our day in Davenport. It was the city closest to my university so it gave me the chance to invite some of my chapter brothers to a friendship visit so they could see what I spent my summer doing. Another that really stood out was when we were in Toledo, Ohio (Go Rockets!). We got to have dinner at the parent’s house of one of the cyclists on our team and all of their neighbors came out to support the team. It was just a really relaxing meal and our team got to really bond.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself:
I had never eaten a hamburger until I went on Journey of Hope.