The Annual Members Survey
Since 2023, we have sent an annual questionnaire to Members (previous expedition participants).
The aim is to help us identify and demonstrate the difference, over extended periods of time, our programmes make.
The questionnaire uses themes from our outcomes tool ‘My Compass’ and questions originally devised by Penn State University for their doctorate research paper ‘The perceived long term influence of youth expeditions on participants’ lives’ by Maria Jose Ramirez Canas (December 2019).
At the time of publication, we have a cumulative total of more than 600 unique responses – from the 4500 Members that were sent the questionnaire – representing every decade of birth from the 1930s to 2000s.
The average score reported by Members for the impact of their expedition* does not significantly change, irrespective of the decade of their birth.
Completion of the questionnaire is voluntary and non-incentivised. We’re grateful to our Members for taking the time to respond and sharing their experiences with us. Thank you.
From over 600 responses, here are the latest results…
Leonard Smith,
Member, East Greenland 1982
“Incredibly, even though the British Exploring Society
expedition I joined was over forty years ago, there aren’t many weeks go by when I don’t notice in myself the amazing impact for good that the adventure of being a Young Explorer has had in my life.
I completely believe that being a part of something as exciting, challenging and demanding as an expedition gave me positive and life changing skills. I see these in myself and I so often recall my expedition which I’m convinced grew qualities in me such as resilience, perseverance, compassion and team work.
Through my career as a business owner and employer these qualities have emboldened and enriched my day-to-day decision making and my relationships as well as strengthening my planning and strategy skills.
“these qualities have emboldened and enriched my day-to-day decision making and my relationships…”
The awesome and breath-taking setting of a remote and pristine wild place, its serenity, ferocity and yet its fragility impacted me and everyone I’ve shared my expedition stories with. I would say that exploring and camping in Greenland as an eighteen year old ignited my strong desire and daily passion to protect, repair and nurture our natural world whilst also encouraging us all to share in the wonder of it.
Reflecting, yes, the unbelievable scenery and the adventurous expedition environment certainly inspired me, but it was also the encouragement and example of our Leaders that had a big effect on me. Being able to live alongside and see up close how a person with experience of adventuring tackles challenges and setbacks, yet keeps positive and aware of the bigger picture compels me to try and be such an example and help to young people today.”
