Brainstorming Exciting SSU Events Around the Campfire

By: Ahmed Khan, Mauricio Cecena, and Alfred Bokea

Our recent trip to Olympia Sports Camp was extraordinary! Located in a secluded environment with limited connectivity, it provided us with a much-needed escape from reality and allowed us to forge deep connections with our colleagues at the Sheridan Student Union (SSU). Join us as we recount the highlights of this unforgettable journey.

Upon arriving at Olympia, we were warmly greeted by the camp's staff, who showed us around the facilities. Meeting our roommates, who would become our close companions for the next three days, added elements of excitement and camaraderie to the experience. Lunch was delightful and full of expertly prepared food that satisfied even the heartiest appetites. As we savoured the meal, some of us ate as if we were insatiable, while others, amusingly, distanced themselves from our voracious appetites.

Once we were divided into two groups, we embarked on distinct, separate adventures. The first group tackled the rock-climbing wall with three levels of difficulty to choose from. The second group ventured to the giant swing, soaring above the beautiful Oxbow Lake. After two exhilarating hours at each obstacle course, we settled into our cozy cabins. When the dinner bell rang, we were beckoned to the enchanting dining hall reminiscent of a scene from a Harry Potter film. Our evening continued with a bonfire, where the camp staff entertained us with humorous songs and skits.

Returning to our cabins, Ahmed and Mauricio realized they had forgotten their sleeping bags, a predicament made worse by the frigid 3-degrees Celsius night. While Ahmed struggled to stay alive and experienced vivid hallucinations, Mauricio improvised by wearing every piece of clothing he could find and topped it off with a towel. Fortunately, the next day, the staff kindly lent them sleeping bags, bringing much-needed relief.

The following morning, the ringing bell marked the beginning of breakfast, which felt like indulging in a marvelous feast. We humbly consumed enough food to feed a family of five. Energized by the meal, we embarked on the zipline adventure and conquered our fears of heights one by one. The long queue provided a great opportunity to connect with members from other departments, sharing our camp experiences and insights.

After lunch, we all gathered in the grand ballroom and discussed future plans, while each department prepared presentations. As an icebreaker, we divided into categories like "only child," "middle child," and "oldest child," created humorous skits, and then formed dance moves in groups based on the season of our birth, which further strengthened the bond amongst colleagues. This gathering was a turning point that illustrated the harmony within the SSU. The icebreakers and presentations allowed us to celebrate our diversity while also finding common ground. The dance groups and plays emphasized the value of inclusivity and a created sense of belonging. It was at these times that we recognized the actual potential of our group and our shared goals for improving the student experience all year long.

As the bonfire began, the department presentations showcased our collective aspirations and goals. Each department contributed ideas to enhance the student experience throughout the year, solidifying our unity and shared purpose. Following the bonfire, we dined together before heading back to our cabins, concluding the day on a satisfying note.

Our experience at Olympia Sports Camp was insightful and provided us with knowledge and motivation for future SSU events. The entertaining bonfire skits reminded us of how valuable it is to provide our event attendees with immersive and memorable experiences. We discovered that careful attention to detail—such as delicious cuisine and engaging entertainment—can improve the overall ambiance and strengthen relationships among participants. These lessons will surely influence how we organize and carry out future events, ensuring that every celebration is unique and makes a lasting impression.

The staff camp trip was more than just a retreat—it was a life-changing occasion that prepared the SSU for an exciting future. We are determined to organize great events that promote cooperation and inclusivity in the Sheridan community. We’re strongly motivated by the lessons discovered and the friendships made on this trip. By combining immersive aspects, interesting activities, and chances to form deeper relationships, we will maximize our collaboration efforts. We hope to establish a thriving community that supports, empowers, and elevates each SSU member by harmonizing our objectives and aspirations.

On the final day of the trip, we eagerly went on a hike to "Beaver Pond," largely fueled by Ahmed's unwavering hope of spotting a beaver. Alas, while the beavers remained elusive, our spirits remained high. After the hike, we packed our cabins and boarded the bus, where exhaustion quickly lulled us into a deep sleep. Arriving back at the HMC campus, we bid everyone farewell, cherishing the memories and newfound bond that transformed us from strangers to a united family. Our retreat at Olympia Sports Camp will forever hold a special place in our hearts.