I have been alpine skiing since I was about 11 and have had a few lessons early on so I was an intermediate skier at best when I joined the club last year. I originally joined this club to meet new people and have fun doing something I enjoy at the same time.
I liked the fact that lessons were included in the membership fee and figured I would be able to work on my technique as well. What I didn't expect was how much improvement I would see in such a short time. The instructors are great and give excellent tips and tricks for achieving the optimal skiers stance and balance. The lessons last for about 2 hours in the morning then you have the rest of the day to practice what you've learned.
The club is very well organized and professional, which I appreciate, esp on the long overnight trips.
I have noticed that more young people are joining the club this year which is amazing. A lot of people have been with the club for years and they can be a wealth of knowledge but it's nice to see new faces.
As for making friends I have found this to be a great place. The trick is to chat up the people in your lessons group - they ski at the same level as you so you can ski the rest of the day with them and hang out together off the slopes. So far it's been a win-win.
Oh and my favourite part is the downhill race they put on every Saturday at MSLM (until February). You get to try your skills on the race course and possibly win a medal, which is based on your experience level. AND... Just for entering the race you get your name put into the door prize draw for cool gear like goggles, boot bags and water bottles. So far I've won a HPSC collapsible water bottle!