Finding My Community: The Climbing Wall That Changed Everything
Member of the Month - Carmela Lilly
Being part of UK Campus Recreation has been one of the most important aspects of my journey at the University of Kentucky. As an out-of-state student with no prior connections at UK, getting involved with Outdoor Adventures right away helped me maintain my physical fitness, appreciate this new place I call home, and form friendships with people who share my interests and hobbies.
Although I played several sports in high school, I never really found a workout that I enjoyed. A few of my friends back home had suggested rock climbing because I like outdoor activities, but there wasn’t a climbing gym in my hometown. When I discovered that UK had a climbing wall, I decided to give it a try, and I’m so glad that I did. At first, I didn’t enjoy it because I wasn’t very good, but starting as an absolute novice and being able to see my improvement over time is a huge part of why I enjoy it now. The people I met at the wall never made me feel embarrassed for failing a route; instead, they offered advice and encouragement. Even though it was intimidating knowing many people around me were more skilled, being surrounded by climbers who were eager to share their knowledge felt comforting.
Soon after, I began working at the wall and training to become an Adventure Trip Leader. Spending so much time there allowed me to form strong friendships with other climbers and the staff. Once I had people to climb with, I started going more often and continued to improve. For the first time in my life, I found myself actually wanting to work out. I began taking yoga classes, cycling, and lifting, first as supplemental training and eventually simply because I enjoyed them. The best part was that everything was in the same building! The Johnson Center became a place where I not only stayed active, but also hung out with friends and relieved stress in a healthy way.
My absolute favorite part of Campus Recreation, though, is the Adventure Trips. As a child, my favorite thing to do was play in the woods, and that hasn’t changed! I didn’t bring a car to campus my freshman year, so I expected to lose access to the outdoors, but thankfully I didn’t have to. Being able to sign up for a trip without worrying about transportation truly saved my sanity. It also helped me meet others interested in outdoor recreation, people I now go on personal trips with and consider some of my closest friends and even part of my family.
All this being said, I am so glad I stepped out of my comfort zone and tried something new, because it has shaped so much of my college experience. I would encourage any new student at UK to try anything they think they might even slightly enjoy, you never know what amazing things will come from it.
*Carmella is a UKY Environmental and Sustainability Studies Major with a Minor in Appalachian Studies and Urban Studies.
