Getting Off Campus
No matter what quarter it was, I felt like I could always count on my friends to remind me to get off campus. Whether it was hiking, exploring Seattle attractions, buying way too much at Northgate Target, or looking for trinkets at the farmer’s markets, I found healing power in the change of location. When on campus, my brain feels like it’s buzzing with my to-do list. Every building becomes a reminder of the work I need to get done. New sites served as distractions from my stress, reminding me I am a complete person outside of being a student.
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When on campus, my brain feels like it’s buzzing with my to-do list.​
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I specifically found peace in hiking alone. When I could, I tried to go hiking once a week. It gave me something to look forward to and allowed me to clear my head. While I love hiking with friends, hiking alone allowed me to slow down and appreciate the little things around me. I noticed the birdsongs, unique plants, fresh air, running water, and beauty around me. Occasionally, I would find a spot and journal, releasing my pent-up stress. I feel so lucky to have found an activity I can always count on to find peace, and I hope to continue using the healing power of nature when I encounter future stressors.
Hiking alone allowed me to slow down and appreciate the little things around me.
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Hiking has been a lifetime hobby of mine. It started with joining my parents on their outdoor adventures, which led me to incredible places such as the top of Mt. Rainer and many of Colorado’s 14ers. Now, as a college student, hiking has helped me find balance. No matter how stressful my week was, I find peace in the outdoors. It serves as my reset button. Hiking is also one of my motivators for medicine: I want to help people return to the activities that they love. Hiking has taught me resilience, perseverance, confidence, and balance. As I continue on my healthcare journey, I hope to continue using hiking and the outdoors to thwart burnout. ​​​
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Hiking is also one of my motivators for medicine: I want to help people return to the activities that they love.
