College Bucket List: Rock Climb at the Rec

 There are so many new things to discover in college, like frat parties, all-nighters and late night pancakes. However, I suggest making rock-climbing next on your William and Mary bucket list! My roommate and I went rock-climbing together as one of our very first bonding activities, and we had so much fun that we made it a weekly habit. If, for some reason, you’ve never set foot inside the Rec let me be the first to inform you that inside is an amazing rock-climbing wall. Don’t be too intimidated by its size. Even though it stretches two floors, it’s not that much higher than some of the loft beds I’ve seen in the freshman dorms. So if you can climb into bed at night, you can easily scale this wall. A majority of the people who climb there are first-time climbers as well, so you’ll be in good company. Bring a friend so you can cheer each other on, although you will get plenty of encouragement from the climbing staff. The students who work there are friendly and like to chat or cheer for you to make your climb more comfortable.  And if you think you look awkward in a harness and climbing shoes, just remember that EVERYONE looks awkward.
 However, I have seen some cute guys who were able to pull off the harness look…and if on the off chance there are no hot guys climbing the same day you are, feel free to take a peak at the men working out in the weight lifting room right next door. It’s really good exercise, and great if you want to tone your arms and legs. I have more confidence when I wave to my friends now that I’ve gotten rid of the flap of flab underneath my arms.  
It’s not like other sports. Rock climbing is unique in the way that it’s only about you, and how you decide to use the holds to get to the top. There are so many routes and combinations that you can explore and repeat once you find your favorite. Don’t get discouraged if you fail to reach the top on your first or second try, it took me two weeks before I completely ascended to the top! Just keep trying, because the feeling of accomplishment and power you get when you ring the bell at the end is one that makes climbing worthwhile. Take your time, and just have fun. Once you go a couple of times it might become your new obsession. What better way to release all that built up midterm stress then conquering the wall?