More Than a Climb: How Maverick Adventures Became Riley Jones’ Second Family
She spoke very highly about the leadership within Maverick Adventures, crediting both Steiger and Assistant Program Coordinator Madison Vandersee for how much she has learned. “Sam and Madison are fantastic supervisors and bosses,” Jones says. “I would work for them forever if I could.” She felt that they created an environment that encouraged staff to approach situations from a different lens and that staff were given space to make mistakes. Not only did Jones develop a greater interest in rock climbing and grow as a leader, she also expanded her role within Maverick Adventures to other adventure-based activities as well. Her work in the new Maverick Adventures Outdoor Equipment Rental Center and leading various outdoor trips taught her new technical skills, such as how to fix parts of a bike and go ice fishing. Jones highlighted how much she has enjoyed these aspects of experiential learning. Maverick Adventures is looking to expand their rental center through more equipment and donations.
Because Maverick Adventures is primarily run by students, there is a revolving door of staff. Jones felt that within the past year she grew exponentially as a leader and has had an opportunity to make a difference and set the example for newer staff. “I’ve learned so much about leadership,” she says. “Being promoted [to manager] gave me confidence. I felt respected, and that helped me grow.”
She recalled her first time showing up at the rock wall, alone, and described it as scary, but she kept coming back because she liked rock climbing. Based on her experience, she has stressed the importance of saying hi to the new people and making them feel welcome so they want to come back. Jones is training new staff to keep the environment welcoming because “I don’t want anyone to feel that way.” In the three years that she has been working there, the environment has improved, and she has recognized that “the environment is crucial for a community so small” and described the rock wall as “more than a community, it’s like a family.”
Jones feels that her involvement through Maverick Adventures has opened the doors to many different career opportunities. Post graduation, she is considering her next steps and reflecting on what makes her happy. “I think what really makes me happy is working in recreation,” she says. “Getting to see people have fun doing something that you organized and created… you give them the space.”
Without hesitation, Jones said that she will miss open climb nights most. She highlighted how fun it is to see the same people every night and the opportunity to see both herself and others improve. She is excited to see what is next for herself recreationally and professionally, giving credit to Maverick Adventures for opening those doors. Jones advises those considering rock climbing or something new for the first time to “believe in yourself, trust the process and try new things.”
“Don’t be afraid to go alone,” she added. “It could turn into your career.”
Big ideas, real-world thinking and inspired action on campus and in the community.
