So… Who’s Behind All This?
I’m April—a former soldier turned adventure-lover sharing the real story behind the trail pics.
A Blog for Real-World Adventure & Personal Growth
Welcome to April on the Go—a storytelling blog about becoming someone who loves the outdoors (even if you didn’t grow up that way). This space is about trying the thing before you feel ready, stumbling forward, and discovering how capable you really are—whether you're climbing mountains, going on your first hike, or just craving something more.
I’m April—former Army officer, now MBA student and adventure-seeker.
I grew up in a Filipino-American household where camping wasn’t really a thing. When I once suggested sleeping outside, my parents replied, “Why would you do that when we have a perfectly good roof?”
The outdoors didn’t really enter my life until the Army. Field exercises and deployments taught me how to survive outside—but it wasn’t until after I left active duty that I truly learned how to enjoy it.
Through travel, solo hikes, mountain summits, and backcountry mistakes, I’ve built a relationship with the outdoors that’s taught me more about grit, healing, and courage than anything else I’ve done. And I’m still figuring it out, one step at a time.
As a first-generation Filipino American, food and cultural connection are a big part of my story too. I didn’t grow up with the outdoors—but I’ve grown into it in my own way (and I’ll always trade gear tips for a bold, home-cooked meal).
US Army Veteran. Outdoor Adventurer. Lifelong Learner.
Honest stories for anyone figuring it out along the way.
I started April on the Go to give people permission to try.
To try when they feel unsure. To start even when they’re not “ready.” To stumble into the unknown and discover their own grit in the process.
This blog exists for anyone craving a little more challenge, curiosity, or connection in their life—especially if you’re new to the outdoors or navigating a big life transition. Here, you’ll find stories that go beyond highlight reels: the hard parts, the awkward moments, and the lessons learned on the way up (or down).
It’s Not About Being the Best—It’s About Showing Up
Why I Started
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Now I want to help others do the same.
Adventure helped me heal, grow, and find myself again.
A Few Milestones Along the Way
How I Got Here
Stationed in Korea, went on my first real hike and started exploring the outdoors
2019
Traveled internationally for the first time and got curious about other cultures
2016
Joined the Army at 18 and started in patient care as an enlisted soldier
2010
Accepted into the U.S. Military Academy at West Point
2012
What I Stand For
- Grit over perfection – It’s not about flawless form; it’s about showing up anyway.
- Growth through discomfort – If it feels a little scary, it’s probably worth trying.
- Vulnerability is strength – I believe in sharing the full picture, not just the shiny parts.
- Curiosity fuels courage – The more you ask, explore, and reflect, the more you grow.
- Start before you’re ready – Confidence is something you build along the way.
- Cultural roots matter—honoring where I come from helps fuel where I’m going.
These are the values that shape every story I share
