Rachel Hemond

Hi all! My name is Rachel, and I'm an avid explorer, a type one diabetic, and queer, soon setting out on a 2018 thru-hike of the Appalachian Trail. I strive to find a balance between a passion for the rough edges of the outdoors and the smooth cleanliness of a lab bench, blending the wonder of summit views and an understanding of the mechanisms of a complex chemical reaction. I love beautifully written words and deep conversations as much as I enjoy watching the moss grow on the sides of mountains and stopping to climb trees on the side of the trail. This means that in the short term, my path leads me to the woods as I prepare to solo hike the entire Appalachian Trail. With that done, I will return to a small liberal arts college in Vermont, where I am a molecular biology and biochemistry major on a pre-medical track. Can't wait to share this journey with all of you!