Instructor Intro: Shane Bracegirdle

New Zealand Australia Gap Year Semester (B) instructor, Shane Bracegirdle, says...

Hi guys!

My name is Shane and I will be one of your program instructors through New Zealand and Australia. I thought you might like to know a little bit about me before we really get to know each other. I am looking forward to mentoring you on this journey as it has so many elements to it and you will all take away a very unique story. I am here to make this story as life changing as possible!

I am from South Australia, where I grew up on the coast and learnt from a very young age that I am passionate about all things outdoors. This soon established itself into an obsession of surfing, with a desire to explore different waves all over the world. That has pretty much guided my life since then, and has allowed me to meet amazing people, interact with nature in a unique way, and gain an appreciation for the environment.

With surfing at the front of my mind, I have been travelling and working in different parts of the world for the last few years. Some of the most memorable experiences were working as a dog-sled guide in Canada, surf instructor in Portugal, expedition leader in Costa Rica, and an outdoor guide in China. All these experiences plus many more have helped me to understand the importance of adventure and the notion of exploring different cultures.

Having been involved in many personal expeditions, I understand that some of you may be nervous and unsure of what this experience has in store for you. Some advice I can offer is the importance for you guys to bring a happy and positive mindset with you. It is amazing what a smile can do! Having an open mind, and a desire to explore will really shape this journey for you. If we can make some friends and change some lives along the way, then it’s going to be a good time!

It has been great to read some of your introductions already, I think we are going to get along just fine. Keep smiling, travel safe, and I will see you guys in New Zealand soon.

Shane

[caption id="attachment_5241" align="alignleft" width="500"] Meet your instructor, Shane[/caption]