Prasna Morar

The best way to experience nature is on foot. - Muir

Contrary to popular belief, hiking is more than just walking through the woods and on trails with only the goal of making it to a mountain top or cliff. I believe that hiking is the gateway to inner peace and forgetting the unnecessary stressors constantly clogging our minds. Through Earth’s natural adventures I am able to see the bigger picture of life and my purpose as one of its many inhabitants.

Recently, I was able to complete the trek to Annapurna Base Camp in Nepal alongside my father, and it was on this trip that I decided to continue my path to medical school as a pre-medical student. Having previously had doubts as to whether or not I was wanting to dedicate the next 10 years of my life to more schooling was constantly nagging at me and what felt like deteriorating my brain. I have always felt a sense of peace and connection to my surroundings on these hikes and treks as I was somewhat isolated from the outside world throughout these journeys. It was only then that I felt the freedom to sit down and weigh my options about all problems, big or small.

Through these treks and personal experiences, I realize how lucky and fortunate I am to be given the life and support I have from my family. Encouraging me to do good with it, rather than just waste it. As I grow older and continue my education, I hope to grow wiser from both my walks through the trees and through the countless opportunities I will be given in my community.