The Mountaineers
Each week we bring you a personal story from one of our members. For our member profile this week we talked to...
Name: Chitra Kosuru
Hometown: I was born in Ludhiana, Punjab (India). I grew up in different cities in India as my father had a transferable job.
Member since: 2023
Occupation: Homemaker
Favorite Activities: Scrambling, hiking, camping, gardening. Apart from the outdoors, I love spending time with my daughter.
10 ESSENTIAL QUESTIONS:
WHAT FIRST BROUGHT YOU TO THE MOUNTAINEERS?
I saw a post by Jeff McKeown on the WA Hikers and Climbers page about the positive impact of The Mountaineers Scrambling course in their lives. After struggling through three difficult years in terms of health issues, I was looking for something challenging to help me move forward in life. Something that will help me focus my thoughts and energy toward feeling positive and productive. I love nature and the outdoors, so signing up for The Mountaineers Scrambling course felt just right, although I was nervous.
Why do you like getting outside with us?
The power of a community and the value it adds to a person's life is indispensable. The Mountaineers community is a positive, diverse, and inclusive community of like-minded people. Getting out on scrambling trips gives me an opportunity to learn new skills, form bonds through which I can learn something new, and we can help each other grow and thrive. Through the Scrambling course, I have met some great leaders and friends who have helped me develop a sense of belonging.
WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE MOUNTAINEERS MEMORY?
It is hard to pick one favorite memory. I have had great experiences on every trip with The Mountaineers. Personally, the Baker snow field trip is my favorite memory. It was an amazing experience. To spend two days at the Baker lodge, interacting with people from diverse backgrounds, and listening to their stories and experiences being part of The Mountaineers was a beautiful experience. Listening to people talk about the mountains was as if they were talking about their friends.
I did not have much experience in snow before the snow field trip. I was still getting to know people and, coming from a different culture, I was totally out of my comfort zone, doing things that I had never done before.
It was challenging for me but I loved every moment of it. Learning to self arrest was difficult for me. I struggled to get it right and couldn't sleep for two nights. I found support from the instructors, course mates, and eventually became comfortable with the help of experienced leaders.
Who/What inspires you?
I get inspiration from people who are standing up to get things done despite the difficulties life puts them through. Stories of their struggles inspire me to persevere, to strive for growth. As a wise person said, "Magic happens when you don't give up, even though you want to."
WHAT does adventure mean to you?
Adventure for me is having new experiences. It is about learning to see the world from a different perspective. It is about going out of your comfort zone to see the beauty and growth it brings in me by being part of the journey. It means coming back home with a smile on your face, feeling inspired irrespective of success or failure.
LIGHTNING ROUND
Smile or game face? Smile
What's your happy place? With the mountains, the water, family, and friends.
What's your 11th Essential? A positive attitude
Post-trip meal or go-to place of choice? Indian masala tea and chole (chickpea) curry.
If you could be a rockstar at any outdoor activity overnight, what would it be? Rock climbing
