Friday, July 15, 2011

Relaxation of Summer with a Twist

Published in the TRU Omega in June 2011
Summer is finally here. We have made it through another year of studying, assignments and lectures. Those of you who are reading this are likely in the midst of taking summer school. I took this summer off, but I will be in the same position as you next year.

Sometimes we have to do things we may not want to do to benefit our future. There are a few pros to taking summer school: First, you can convince your professors to conduct your classes outside and enjoy the beautiful summer weather. Secondly, you can achieve your goal of obtaining your degree faster, or reducing your course load in the upcoming semesters. Thirdly, the semester feels like it goes by quickly because the course material is condensed.

Let’s get back to summer vacation and relaxing. There are endless recreational possibilities to explore in the Kamloops area. Camping, hiking, mountain biking, rock climbing, waterfall exploring, horseback riding, boating, visiting beaches and swimming are just a few of the adventures that you can enjoy. 
There is also Music in the Park at Riverside every night at 7:00 from July 1st to August 31st and the Kamloopa Pow Wow on July 29-31st.  
 Don’t forget to join the Canada Day celebration at Riverside Park on July 1st.  

 If you don’t mind traveling a bit farther, British Columbia offers beautiful scenery including mountains, lakes and rivers. If you would like more information on some of these activities, visit: www.visitnorththompson.ca or http://www.hellobc.com/ .

Summer is a time for rest and relaxation, but it is also important to keep your mind active. Why not participate in an activity relating to your field? Perhaps you could gain employment or get a volunteer position that contributes experience and knowledge to your educational and future career goals. For myself, I have found that reading and writing throughout the summer helps keep me mentally sharp.

In the summer, you have the chance to do things that you always wanted to do but couldn’t because you were in school.  Personally, I have already had the opportunity to experience a few adventures: I had the chance to do a photo shoot with one of my fellow journalism classmates just for fun. I have also continued to write for the Omega, and other various newsletters. One of my passions is to create awareness and advocate for people with disabilities. I had the privilege to write and co-present a speech for the proclamation to city council for “Disability Awareness Week.”

For the relaxation part of my summer, I will be traveling to Maui for the first time to experience a Luau, a Hawaiian theatre production, a boat ride to the crater of an old volcano and of course the tropical sunshine!

This summer, I hope that you also have the opportunity to combine work and school with fun and relaxation.

No comments: