Ryland Harrison

What else are you involved in on campus?

Emory and Henry Climate Collaborative

What is your favorite outdoor adventure sport? What has drawn you to this activity?

I absolutely adore whitewater kayaking. There is so much to the sport that attracts me. I use this sport to connect with me brother and father, and it has really boosted my confidence. This sport equally uplifts and humbles me, and I do not receive a fraction of satisfaction from other outdoor activities than I do whitewater kayaking. It makes me feel in control, powerful, and it tune to what is happening around me.

How would you describe the A team community?

Very supportive and accepting. I have discovered some of my greatest friends from this program, and since this program teaches you lifetime sports, I know I will continue to grow from the outdoor adventure team outside of my collegiate career.

What qualities does someone need to be a member of the A team?

Open-mindedness, the passion of environmental learning, and the willingness to persist despite uncomfortable circumstances.

What is your biggest accomplishment as an A team member?

I have worked really hard to become the kayaker I am now, and I am very proud of the progress I have made. I had a phobia of whitewater for years, but I over came this blockage, and I have been successful ever since.

What has been your favorite A team trip? Why?

In March of 2022, the outdoor program took a spring break trip to Ecuador to whitewater kayak, and that trip changed my life. I made serious break throughs in my boating progression, and I met some amazing individuals. I made connections to an incredible outdoor adventure (women-owned) company, and I now have job opportunities through them in the future.

Class of:

2024

Major/s

Environmental Science/Sociology Minor