3:15 a.m. Nick’s alarm clock wakes him up. “It seems like I’ve just gone to sleep and I’m already waking up!” Nick looks outside and realizes it will be almost three hours until it’s light out. The full moon illuminates a calm morning. Nick knows today will be a great day because he and his eighth year classmates will be hiking up Grays Peak. Nick has never summitted a 14,000 foot peak before and is really looking forward to the challenge.

5:30 a.m. Nick and fourteen classmates, along with three guides and five chaperones, begin the pre-dawn ascent to Grays Peak. “The first mile is the hardest because you’re not quite warmed up yet. But it’s really fun because you know there’s an adventure ahead of you!”

What do you like most about MSE?
I like the small class sizes. Everyone is really close; you get to know your classmates for who they are. I also like the fact that teachers here really want you to succeed.

What are your goals for the future?
Well, I need to continue working hard so I can keep my grades up. That way I can do well in high school and hopefully become a vet and a wildlife photographer someday. I try to go the extra mile when I turn in my work, especially on my projects. I think it’s important to set high expectations because you’ll need to be at your best in high school.

9:45 a.m. All fourteen eighth graders have successfully reached the top of Grays Peak. After four hours of hiking, students relax, eat a snack and take in the incredible views. Now for the descent…

4:30 p.m. Nick finally arrives back at school where his dad is waiting to pick him up. “My dad is my hero and my role model. He is always there to support me. A few years ago, my primary interests changed from sports to music. I play the piano and drums. He encouraged me the whole way. He comes to all my concerts.”