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Testimonials

Parents and Students rave about New River Academy

"Matt thanks so much for all you've done.  Alex is home safe here in Los Altos Hills.  It's so great to see him and get a few hugs (I'm on a strict allocation which I think goes with the teen territory).   Alex reports that you are doing a great job and that he enjoys his time with you specifically.

He's off to bed but the few stories about the orphans, school visit, and driving without stop lights were member able.

Your efforts are creating memories for a lifetime; values that will transcend just these people to their families and friends, and friendships that will span the globe. What impact. Nice job."

“Thank you for the update. I appreciate you working so closely with Morgan on his Precalc. He is really hard on himself in math and lacks confidence in that area. I'm not sure if he has told you, but at the "moment" he intends to major in Journalism in college next year and is trying to get into the Journalism program at Belmont University. He has sent in a very small portfolio already, but will need to add to it when he gets back from NZ. Therefore, any writing experience he can get would be terrific! Morgan's father and I both appreciate all the work you guys are doing with Morgan. It is definitely an experience of a lifetime, and I want him to not only learn, but enjoy this trip as much as possible.”

"Well today was my first day back to normal public school, and I must say that it was probably the hardest day I have ever had at school. All I could do was sit in class and think about how just a month ago at this time of the day I was paddling on some gorgeous river in Chile and watching the sun rise. It is hard to get back in the swing of things here, and even harder to not be able to kayak all the time, but I am getting there. I do not know if I ever truly thanked you for the semester with Huge. I had an amazing time and especially now when I am thrown in with 2,000 other students I remember why I miss Huge so much. You have done an outstanding job starting that school."

"We are eternally grateful that Huge Experiences allows Pat to pursue his dream of being a champion. David helped Pat to develop his skills as an assistant coach/instructor. He has demonstrated his faith in our son by giving him responsibilities that include setting the pace for a work-out session, offering training tips and encouraging others to perform to their best ability. His belief that the juniors of today are the champions of tomorrow encourages and inspires young people on a daily basis.”

"As a parent that has first hand knowledge of Huge Experiences and its goals, I would recommend this educational paradigm to any parent who is truly interested in their child's education.

I witnessed the structure and educational capabilities of David Hughes, and AHE, first hand. I am so impressed with David's skills as a leader on the river, businessman on the shore, educator to all his kids, and father-like empathy when needed. He and the staff are absolutely dedicated to education, in the book sense, as well as in the real- life experiences sense. They provided an opportunity in which my child truly experienced the cultural and natural environment through safe travels. AHE's commitment to kayaking is an asset too, as Zack is now committed to discipline, group dynamics, and safety. My son was the youngest of the group at 14 yet the return for my investment in his education was exponential.

Zack has grown tremendously from his experience in Costa Rica and it was just a 10-day trip. We cannot wait for his school year to begin; imagine what a full year will bring! Thank you Huge Experiences."

"Huge Experiences fills a void for young paddlers and their parents.† David works hard to find out and fulfill parents expectations.† He provides the youth a safe and exciting training experience.      Our son, "Mike D" has spent a lot of time with David and Huge Experiences and it shows!"

Alice and Nick Quinif
Parents of "Mike D" Junior Expert National Champion 2001