Caitlin McEvoy took part in a 15-day expedition in Romania’s breathtaking Carpathian Mountains – a once-in-a-lifetime journey that combined environmental science, conservation, and hands-on adventure. She was joined by other Priestley students and members of TCAT’s academies. Here she gives her thoughts on the amazing experience.

 

My college trip to the Carpathian Mountains in Romania was an experience that transcended the typical student excursion, becoming a truly transformative journey. Based at a camp nestled amidst the stunning natural beauty of the Carpathians, the trip offered a profound blend of adventure, learning, and personal growth.

 

The days were packed with activities that immersed us in the wilderness, further heightened by the lack on online technology, giving us a holiday away from our phones; something we all felt the positive effects of. We spent countless hours hiking, rewarded at every turn by breathtaking panoramic views that stretched as far as the eye could see. Evenings brought the magic of the mountains to life as we lay beneath a blanket of beautiful stars, feeling a profound connection to the natural world. A thrilling highlight was white-water rafting, an exhilarating experience that tested our teamwork and added an adrenaline-fueled dimension to our adventure.

 

Beyond the adventure, the trip provided invaluable insights into conservation and sustainability. We learned about crucial efforts to protect species, particularly focusing on bison populations and their role in the ecosystem. Witnessing bears in real life was an awe-inspiring moment, reinforcing the importance of wildlife preservation. Our hands-on involvement extended to setting up camera traps, which yielded incredible footage of elusive animals like stags, bears, and even lynx, offering a rare glimpse into their hidden lives. Exploring intricately made beaver dams further deepened our understanding of the interconnectedness of ecosystems and the vital role each species plays.

 

The Carpathian trip was not just about the external landscape; it was also a journey of internal discovery. I felt an immense sense of freedom from the outside world, almost untouchable in the pristine environment. This feeling of being truly natural allowed for significant personal growth, pushing me outside my comfort zone while always feeling safe under the guidance of our incredible leaders, especially Leader Rob, who truly became a “camp dad” to us all. His care and dedication, along with that of every leader we met, fostered such strong bonds that there were tears when we finally said goodbye in Bucharest.

 

The physically demanding activities, including 9-hour hiking days, built resilience and taught me the value of perseverance. Crucially, the trip honed essential life skills like teamwork and independence. I forged lifelong friendships with fellow students, sharing in every triumph and challenge. This was more than just a college trip; it was a true trip of a lifetime that I will remember forever.