³ÉÈË´óƬ

5 days of camping and a 74km walk pushed me out of my shell.

It felt like there was an invisible barrier between myself and others during the 90-minute-long drive for the Wild South Coast Way, where we were going to have the hike as an activity for the .Ìý

On the way to the destination, there was nothing that I could grasp from the conversation that other club members were having. Despite having lived for a year in Australia, the language and cultural barrier was an unneglectable fact that made me feel vulnerable.Ìý

I closed my eyes and pretended to sleep. It was the only thing I could think to do while I wanted both time and my fear to pass.Ìý

I was not able to stay silent while camping as I needed to collaborate and share a tiny tent to be able to complete the journey. Hiking while camping overnight was a good way to force myself to interact with other club members and connect with them.Ìý

There were plenty of stories and accidents that happened during the first few days of camp. The tent was broken, my foot hurt for the longest distance walk I had ever done, and I forgot to bring spoons for eating. Those silly events in the camp were also good opportunities to talk to people and glimpse their kindness or generosity.Ìý

Sharing the same table also helped to fade my fear of other club members. I used so much energy...all I could think of during the hike was food. Creamy blueberry porridge was my favourite because it energized me every morning.Ìý

The beautiful nature alongside the coast made this travel experience unforgettable. Reflecting on that time, however, I was more pleased to be able to find a community where I could be honest and get the inspiration to enjoy the moment.Ìý

The support of my fellow hikers helped me to complete the task and feel safe as well as make some new connections.Ìý

If you are also the one struggling to find friends or communities that you fit in with, the club activity is a good opportunity to get connected with other students. In my case, it has been the mountain club. Keep in mind you don’t have to confine yourself to sports. There are also clubs around language, chess, and chemical engineering for example.Ìý

Use the link below and explore that club that interests you! Hope you will find at least a few clubs that encourage you to go out of the shell!Ìý

Ìý

Ìý

Ìý