The air is crisp and breezy as the cars drive up to Eagle View’s upper base. The families slowly gather and introduce themselves to each other and staff as their young adult stands by subtly looking over their shoulders for familiar faces and potential friends. The huge spread of food Jeremy and the staff have laid out, provides an opportunity to meet and mingle as the families and staff pick their way down the line filling plates to overflowing. A new Gap year is starting and excitement rides on the Wyoming breeze. Everyone listens intently as Annika the new Gap Director introduces herself and her wingman, Trey, the new Expedition and Logistics Director of the program. Together, their enthusiasm, experience, and expertise is contagious and reassuring to all the parents and participants. As lunch winds to a close, the Gapper’s, as they will be called for the next 9 months, and staff amble down to lower base to finish moving in and to start team-building activities. The parents visit with Liz, Big John, Jeremy, Trey and Annika about their hopes and concerns. Soon, all fears are assuaged, all hopes validated and the day draws to a close. Parents return to their homes knowing their young adult will transform into their new independence and adulthood in good hands. A new Gap Year is underway!