From novice to thru-hiker: a UGA student’s backpacking journey 

Bryan Gomez, a University of Georgia pharmacy student, credits a Recreational Sports Outdoor Rec backpacking trip with sparking a passion that changed his life. What began as an uncertain first-time adventure turned into confidence, growth and a love for the outdoors that continues to shape his outlook on life. 

Discovering the Outdoors 

Before Labor Day weekend in 2025, Gomez had never camped, backpacked or built a fire.  

“I wasn’t someone who grew up very athletic. I didn’t play sports and I certainly didn’t go to the gym,” Gomez said. 

When he signed up for the Cumberland Island backpacking trip, he was not sure what to expect. Carrying a heavy pack, hiking long distances, and sleeping in a tent were all brand-new experiences. The physical and mental challenge pushed him to his limits. 

But through that challenge, he found something unexpected: joy. 

“That trip was exhausting, humbling and demanding in ways I’d never experienced,” he said. “But it was also joyful. I genuinely think about the trip all the time, and I cherish the memories and photos from it dearly.” 

Finding Support and Belonging 

Much of that joy came from the trip leaders.  

“Zoe and Mark made the experience not only bearable, but memorable,” he said. “What could’ve been just a challenge became an adventure under their leadership.” 

Their encouragement opened the door to something new. After Cumberland Island, Gomez decided to become legitimately grow his outdoor recreational skills. To do that, he knew he had to build strength and confidence. For the first time in his life, he began going to the gym regularly, learning strength training at the Ramsey Student Center. 

“I started putting on muscle and feeling comfortable in the gym—something my younger self would’ve never thought possible,” he said. 

That first trip inspired him to keep pushing forward. He began buying his own backpacking gear, going on smaller trips, and slowly expanding his adventures. 

During spring break, he set out for New Mexico and Texas to visit the Guadalupe Mountains, Big Bend, Carlsbad Caverns and White Sands National Parks. 

Most recently, while on vacation from pharmacy school, he reached a milestone he never thought possible: completing the 96-mile West Highland Way in Scotland. 

“One year after Cumberland Island, I’m now a backpacker,” he said proudly. 

Gratitude and Reflection 

Looking back, Gomez says the trip changed the way he views himself. 

“Thank you for giving me the gift of backpacking, and more than that, thank you for giving me a confidence in myself that I didn’t know I had,” he said. “You opened the door to a whole new world that has now become one of the greatest joys in my life.” 

Gomez’s journey is proof that outdoor recreation has something for everyone. There is no prior experience required. To students who might be nervous about trying something new, his advice is simple: take that first step. You never know what it might lead to. 

Discover Your Own Adventure  

Outdoor Recreation is just the start. From fitness to intramurals to aquatics, Recreational Sports has something for everyone!