think outside
Think Outside
the pursuit of experiential learning... in a variety of contexts
We believe that the most lasting learning happens not just through lectures or textbooks, but through lived experience. This is why experiential learning is at the heart of everything we do. Whether it's diving into Scripture—and discovering unexpected truth—around a campfire, engaging in real-world cultural topics around the dinner table, or hiking on the Appalachian Trail, we create moments where truth can come alive.
We have built the Blue Ridge Fellows program very intentionally, in this amazing place, to help our fellows think outside. We think outside of the box. We think outside of the classroom. We think outside of our culture's sometimes-superficial brand of Christianity. And, as often as we can, we get away from civilization by pursuing fresh air and some sort of adventure that will allow us, quite literally, to think outside.
![Thinking about becoming a Blue Ridge Fellow? Check out our Google reviews to see what past fellows have said about their experience! [The fellows + Julia + Hannah celebrating Abby’s birthday at her favorite place-Blaze Pizza!]](https://scontent-iad3-2.cdninstagram.com/v/t51.75761-15/476822864_18443797813076270_400324495511162749_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_e35_tt6&_nc_cat=103&ccb=7-5&_nc_sid=18de74&efg=eyJlZmdfdGFnIjoiRkVFRC5iZXN0X2ltYWdlX3VybGdlbi5DMyJ9&_nc_ohc=IMS0aii_L9IQ7kNvwFUT4A_&_nc_oc=Adl32EJXDQM3N1QzB3ZnfkvvCFfigij6P1UC5Mwg7bN0h_6Vs1Ajos9C-uZNLK-Gcw8&_nc_zt=23&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.cdninstagram.com&edm=ANo9K5cEAAAA&_nc_gid=PSMUcPJcwTmxH5R4rh8v3A&oh=00_AfiLCHiVQLyw2rMqtgvSahhhLVV7LL9dTgxvHD1HT8bkFA&oe=692570D3)
our instagram feed provides snapshots of what we mean by experiential learning
When we do that, and when learning is tied to experience, it moves from theory into something personal and unforgettable. It’s one thing to talk about God’s creativity; it’s another to witness His artistry from a mountain peak at sunrise. It’s one thing to discuss community; it’s another to enter into it intentionally, with mentors and friends who walk beside you in day-to-day life. It's one thing to discuss service; it's another to catch a flight to Belize to roll up our sleeves to serve the least of these.
These experiences don’t just inform our mind, they form our hearts.
don't just learn it. live it.
As a fellow, you won't just learn about scripture, community, and work; you will be invited into a rhythm of living it. Learning is a journey; one marked by growth, risk, joy, and transformation. Because we’re convinced: when you live out what you’re learning, you’ll never forget it.
So, we invite you to apply to become a Blue Ridge Fellow; to think outside about the next nine months of your life. Please roam around our site in any order you'd like (obviously) to learn more. Or, if you'd prefer, you can follow sort of a guided path through the experience of a Blue Ridge Fellow. Each fellow will be challenged to grow in four significant ways during their time here: Living, Learning, Working, and Serving.
And here's what a typical week looks like.
Finally—if you haven't already—get a glimpse of the beauty and wonder of Roanoke!
