The try-out was more emotionally and mentally difficult than physically difficult. We were constantly taught to make safe and rational decisions in order to keep the students and each other safe and also to ensure that we were creating a therapeutic environment for students to grow in.
The guides are all very amazing people and are there because they care about the work and the impact of wilderness therapy. These guides are all very skilled in their own ways which was great when we were placed on teams. We were all able to contribute and help each other.
Management is very relaxed in that they are willing to work with guides and develop an actual relationship with guides. I felt cared for and valued while working there. I felt that I was able to create good connections with management.
What I wish was different
I wish that training into the policies and procedures was more formal than what I had experienced. We learned much of the policies and procedures during the Try-out week and that was all. While working we were given a packet of items or tasks to complete that were supposed to help new guides understand and practice the policies and procedures learned however it was never really enforced and many guides that had been there for a while didn't place any importance on the packet.
Advice
Get ready to do some hard work. This job was emotionally and mentally challenging but worth it. It gave me a good look into the wilderness therapy world of work and allowed me to gather my own inferences on what was needed of me. As a new guide, there aren't too many opportunities to exercise any therapeutic recreation theories or skills but if you decide to stay longer, you are more likely to make a bigger impact.
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Field Guide
May - August 2019 • Sandy, UT
What I liked
Most rewarding job I've ever been a part of. Great community of people to surround yourself with. Great environment for personal growth and development. Always active and engaged.
What I wish was different
Better gear stipend. If you look at the pay per hour it's really low and I think the guides should be paid more for how much responsibility they have. Better/quicker communication between management and field staff.
Advice
Know who you are and be that person at all times. Have a short memory and laugh at the small things. Take advantage of off shift to relax. Separate work from personal life.
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Field Guide
May - August 2018 • Mount Pleasant, UT
What I liked
Loved being Outdoors and working with young people. The environment and employee culture was super supportive. Also, ongoing training was a part of the job.
