Written by Latham Wallace, second-year Adventure Studies student
The Adventure Studies Program at Thompson Rivers University has been one of the most life-changing experiences I’ve ever had. It’s been challenging, exciting, and full of opportunities I never imagined to come my way. I’m so thankful for the support of my home community leadership in the Lil’Wat Nation, my TRU instructors, my partner, and my friends that helped me take this step.
As an Indigenous person, I value a deep connection to the land, water, and the outdoors. This program helped me strengthen that connection in ways that are hard to describe. From rock climbing and whitewater canoeing to backpacking and leadership training, every experience has pushed me to grow — physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually.
The instructors, TRU faculty, and classmates and friends I’ve met along the way have become an incredible support system. They’ve taught me so much about teamwork, leadership, and adventure tourism, and have opened doors to new job opportunities and networks for my future. The best part? Learning outdoors — hands-on, in real environments — where every challenge becomes a lesson and every adventure becomes a memory.
To all the Indigenous youth and young people out there: If you think a lifestyle like this fits you and you want it, go for it and make it happen. Don’t let fear or self-doubt get in the way, you can do more than you think you can. The land has so much to teach us, and we all have something powerful to give back. This program reminded me that growth happens when we step outside our comfort zone and when we aim for being better than we were yesterday. I don’t regret it one bit and I can’t wait to see what is around the river bend after I complete my diploma!
