It’s hardly a groundbreaking observation that our constantly connected, always-on world is contributing to widespread mental burnout. For university students, the challenge is especially acute: juggling essay deadlines, internship applications, and extracurricular commitments can make life feel like an endless stream of responsibilities. On top of this, in a culture where being reachable and responsive is often expected, truly switching off can feel nearly impossible.
This reality hit me with surprising intensity one afternoon last December, sitting under the harsh fluorescent lights of the main library, hunched over half-finished exam review notes, and surrounded by the quiet hum of collective stress. After a challenging semester followed by weeks of revision, I was battling an exceptional case of mental exhaustion. In that moment, the urge to escape, to fully disconnect, felt like a necessity.
Over the past few years, I have felt this urge with increasing intensity. My friends and I often romanticize a life removed from civilization, imagining ourselves wandering through mountains the way we’ve seen in films, self-sufficient and fully present. However, this dream has always felt like nothing more than just that, a dream.
This winter, though, I began researching how I could make this fantasy into a reality. That’s when I remembered NOLS (National Outdoor Leadership School), a non-profit outdoor education school based in Lander, Wyoming. NOLS offers courses across six continents, ranging from two weeks to a full year, focused on wilderness skills and leadership development. I was familiar with NOLS through my dad, who completed a trip in Alaska when he was in high school, and my brothers, both of whom spent three months backpacking across Wyoming.
In full transparency, after hearing the details of my brothers’ experiences, complete with relentless days, physical exhaustion, and food rationing, I was convinced that NOLS was not for me. I love the outdoors and have always found a deep sense of peace and serenity through connecting with nature. However, as much as I enjoy hiking and camping, I have never felt a strong desire to give up the comfort of coming home to a hot shower and a warm, comfortable bed.
Yet, as I sat in that library on that bleak December day, something shifted. NOLS was all I craved; even the idea of discomfort, being pushed away from routine and convenience, felt necessary. After talking it through with my parents, I registered for a 21-day horse packing course in Wyoming. Almost immediately, I felt a sense of relief and hope.
Although three weeks may seem relatively brief compared to the longer courses offered by NOLS, as my departure date approaches, a mix of nerves and excitement has begun to set in. While I have often imagined and idealized going off the grid, the reality of it feels different. No phone. No music. No pictures. No way to share the experience with friends and family. Days will be structured around riding, setting up camp, cooking, and navigating new terrain. And what I find most unfamiliar, there will be no distractions.
By stepping away from the constant buzz of the world, I will be left alone with my thoughts, which both excites and intimidates me. Though I know the trip will pass quickly, I hope to experience a sense of complete presence, in body, mind, and surroundings, that I can carry with me long after the three weeks have come to an end.
Obviously, I couldn’t write this article without acknowledging the privilege it is to opt in to one of these programs; not everyone has the time, resources, or access to step away in such a drastic way. However, I do believe that many of the lessons I hope to gain don’t require a formal course, just intentional time away.
Although I am daunted by the challenge, I am excited to embrace the adventure and uncertainty of it. Hopefully, by disconnecting from the world, I will be able to reconnect with myself.
Come back next fall to hear my NOLS recap!