Written by Bishesh Shah and Charley
As the trip comes to an end, prior to that comes our Student Led Travel Days. During this 2-3 day period, we (students) get to chose the plan for the days. We came together as a group and brainstormed a plan for the remaining days. As we prepare ourselves to go back to our normal lives and reconnect with family/loved ones, we went shopping for souvenirs at various places on the island, ranging from a return to trip favorite, Downtown Hilo to Downtown Kona. We also went to Mauna Kea, a volcano, at sunset, to see a beautiful view and breathtaking colors. On our last full day, we packed up camp for the last time and spent the night at Hotel Manago.
What were the highlights of the week?Â
On the first day of Student Led Travel, we visited Beach 69, a beautiful shaded beach, where we got to swim, snorkel, and tan under the sun. This was a nice relaxing experience after a long day of shopping and personal reflection.
On the next day of Student Led Travel, we took a break from our normal visits to the Beach and went to quiet the opposite, Mauna Kea. Mauna Kea is a volcano at high elevations and we were able to take a short hike during sunset to see beautiful mountains, clouds, and experience a colder night in Hawaii
Finally, on our last night in Hawaii, we (students) were surprised with the opportunity to swim with Manta Rays. After a peaceful and chilly boat ride, the students and OEs were able to snorkel with beautiful Manta Rays, who came very close to us and lucky students got to feel them as well. This month has had enjoyable moments but this night definitely was a highlight of it all. Seeing these fascinating creatures in their native environment and swimming among them was a blissful experience.
What’s something that was challenging this week?Â
Goodbyes are hard but memories are forever. These few days, the group and I are coming to terms with the fact that the trip is coming to an end. We all have seen immense growth in one another in skills like cooking, cleaning, adaptability, and overall discipline. Being surrounded by one another for the past 3-4 works and having limited access to the internet, our whole lives were each other and we have made bonds deeper than anyone imagined. Being away from our phones at first was hard but now isn’t even a worry in our minds as we are constantly exploring the island, doing group activities, or just enjoying one another’s company. Therefore, going home and receiving our phones back comes with fear as we don’t know what we have missed this past month but also sadness as we are leaving one another and this incredible island.
In what ways have you grown since the start of the program?Â
I think that I can speak for most of the group when I say that we are all very different people compared to when we all met four weeks ago. From exploring new places and cultures, to learning how to live in community, while working together and avoiding conflict, we have learned and grown so much. Through all the service hours, nights in hot tents, and effort, we have remained a team. The bonds that we share after this experience are unique and unbreakable, and that is something that can’t go unnoticed.
