Last weekend, our University Performance Program at NC State (UPP) took students on a much-needed break from academics and city life, heading to Wilmington, North Carolina for a day trip full of adventure, history, and relaxation. This day trip was carefully planned not only to offer students a relaxing break but also to help them develop important skills like open-mindness, communication, teamwork, and self-awareness that UPP seeks to develop in our curriculum.
Paddling Through Nature at Greenfield Lake
We started the day with an ecological kayaking tour at Greenfield Lake guided by Wilmington Outdoor Adventures. For many students, it was their first time kayaking, and they went through a full learning curve from feeling nervous at the beginning to gaining confidence and even mastering their strokes. It was rewarding to see their excitement as they could paddle up right next to turtles bathing in the sun and birds in the trees – a luxury of closeness only kayaks can bring. Along the way, they also learned about the lake’s conservation efforts and its ecological history, making it an adventure that was both fun and educational.
Stepping Into History at the Battleship North Carolina
After enjoying lunch in downtown Wilmington, students explored one of the most famous battleships in U.S. history – the USS North Carolina. Walking through its narrow hallways and exploring the different rooms gave them a glimpse into the daily lives of the sailors who lived and worked aboard. They were especially intrigued by how the crew managed to sleep, eat, and even entertain themselves in such confined spaces. It was a surprising and eye-opening experience, bringing history to life in a way that textbooks never could.
A Sunset to Remember at Carolina Beach
The highlight of the day for many students was the visit to Carolina Beach. For some, it was their first time seeing the Atlantic Ocean, and the excitement was contagious. They collected seashells, snapped plenty of photos, and played spike ball together, taking advantage of the soft sand and ocean breeze. As the sun began to set, the sky transformed into stunning shades of pink and orange, providing the perfect ending to a beautiful day.
This trip was a reminder of how important it is to step away from daily routines, explore new places, and connect with nature. Seeing the students’ joy and hearing them share how much fun they had makes us even more excited to plan future adventures like this. Here’s to more experiences that bring learning, fun, and a little bit of relaxation together!
