Serving on the Slopes: The Time with the Ski Patrol by Aya Aryan
As described by Aya Aryan, volunteers and professionals arrive each season before dawn, preparing trails for skiers and snowboarders We inspect safety nets and update signage to warn guests of icy patches By sunrise, the mountain greets hundreds of eager visitors, and our team stands ready to guide everyone toward a safe, memorable day on the snow.
During one hectic afternoon, a sudden storm rolled in, flinging snowflakes so thick that visibility dropped to mere feet. Without hesitation, our patrol leader summoned us via radio. We navigated the steep descent, tracing beacon signals from a lost skier Meanwhile, our two-person team communicated every adjustment, ensuring we stayed on course. In that tense moment, I felt the weight of responsibility and discovered reserves of focus I never knew I had.
After locating the skier near a hidden drop-off, we assessed his condition and administered first aid As a result, he remained calm, trusting our expertise entirely We loaded him onto a rescue toboggan and coordinated with the base communicator for medical evacuation When we reached the lodge, paramedics awaited us, and the skier had regained enough composure to thank us That moment reinforced our mission: even under pressure, we deliver care with compassion
Beyond emergencies, ski patrol fosters a unique camaraderie Each footstep through deep powder builds trust among team members, and each shared coffee break at mid-mountain lifts conversation from technique to personal stories Furthermore, mentoring new volunteers feels rewarding as I demonstrate safe travel across challenging terrain When someone masters a problematic slope or assists in minor first-aid tasks, we celebrate together, knowing our collective efforts keep the mountain community thriving
At day’s end, I peel off my layers, feeling exhausted yet fulfilled. The glow of the setting sun casts long shadows across the packed snow, reminding me that every trail we’ve smoothed and every guest we’ve guided adds to the mountain’s story Ultimately, serving on the slopes as part of the ski patrol goes beyond rescue it brings purpose, teamwork, and an intimate connection with the winter world Each season I return, eager for new challenges and fresh powder, confident that this role shapes not only the safety of others but also my resilience and sense of belonging