The day after the 2010 English Essentials Summer Camp ended, students and teachers set off either for Changbai Mountain or for a camping trip at a deer farm. By far the majority of the students (158 of them) opted for the deer farm. They were accompanied by 21 teachers.
After watching a demonstration on how to put up a tent, students found themselves enjoying setting up their own. The afternoon saw the students relaxing in many different ways—some went fishing, some went for a walk, some played cards or ball games, and others took a nap. As dusk arrived, helpful students assisted in collecting firewood. Others gathered round for an explanation on how to barbeque a kebab. After stomachs were filled, the night was spent singing round the fire and talking in small groups. Bedtime came but those few who stayed up were privileged with the chance to watch some shooting stars, whereas the rest could only envy them as they recounted their experience the next morning.
After breakfast, there was a time of sharing, at which many students told of how this camping trip brought firsts for them— first time pitching a tent, first time living out under the stars, first time barbequing a kebab, and the list goes on. Altogether, the students greatly treasured the time spent with one another and the friendships forged.
– Melody, an assistant teacher at the summer camp
