Learning Experience #1

Today was our long awaited canoe trip down the Trinity River. As someone who had never been canoeing before this, I was just as nervous as I was excited. My anxieties were quickly assuaged, though, as the trip ended up being my favorite part of my Literature and Civilization II experience, if not my entire semester.  I’ve had many wonderful learning experiences since coming to TCU, but this one certainly ranks near the top.

After meeting in the rec center at the designated time, our journey began. Along with my classmates Mike, Kit, and Erin, I got to ride in Dr. William’s car while the other students rode in the van. I enjoyed talking with Dr. Williams, as he is someone I look up to. Mike also said he’d be my partner for the canoe trip, so things were already getting off to a great start. We finally reached our destination, where we were given instructions and tips on how to navigate the Trinity. Mike and I were the first ones to get our canoe into the water. After hitting everything from bushes, logs, rocks, the riverbank, and even other people, Mike and I finally got the hang of canoeing. The weather was great and the scenery beautiful. Mike and I talked about a lot of different things as we rowed down the river, but other times we just appreciated the silence and listened to nature. Mike almost flipped us over a few times trying to splash people, but we thankfully did not. We even got a train passing over a nearby bridge to sound its horn at us. The final minutes of our canoe trip was defined by a breath taking view of Fort Worth. Mike and I were the first canoe to reach the end of the Trinity, although Sruthi was first overall in her kayak. By the time we reached the end, everyone was exhausted and mentioning sore shoulders after hours and miles of canoeing. Still, it was completely worth it!

The Trinity River canoe trip was a lot of fun, but part of what made it so enjoyable was what I learned. First of all, I acquired a new skill. Not only did I learn how to canoe, but I also found something that I enjoy and would love to do again with friends in the future. More importantly, I learned to work with and trust someone that I did not know too well. I did not know much about Mike before today, but we had to work together in order to successfully navigate the river swiftly and without capsizing. Being the first canoe to reach the end was a testament to our teamwork. I also gained a new perspective on the city I call my home, as I’ve never had the pleasure of seeing Fort Worth from the Trinity River. This trip was an incredible learning experience that I am so thankful for as my sophomore year comes to a close.