I used to think I was a nature person and that nature would help me reach that state of peace that I longed for. But then I took a trip down to Yosemite National Park with MSA and Science Club and my whole mindset changed.

Sitting in the car for seven hours made me want to throw things and scream but as soon as we got to Yosemite I calmed down. We drove down the winding road and the beauty surrounding us was indescribable. There was fog everywhere but it made it just that much more beautiful. The fog gave it an eerie vibe but it was an enjoyable.

When we finally reached our destination the smell of nature was unbelievable. The cold air would hit my face and I could feel the freshness. It all felt so peaceful but then the hiking started. It was a baby hike down to the valley. It was all downhill, pretty easy but hard to control your speed. Once I figured how to control my speed I could enjoy the nature. I felt like the trail was something pulled out of a movie. It all felt so surreal. Then I was able to shower and throw on my onsie everything fell into place. But I soon learned that I was not a nature person.

The next day we were woke up at 6 in the morning and then forced to hike twelve miles up a steep mountain. I was terrified of taking one wrong step and falling off the edge and plummeting to my death that I couldn’t even properly enjoy the view. Then we reached the first water fall and it was magnificent. The whole way up the mist soaked us but it was the most refreshing water. And at the actual waterfall the treacherous water made for some really great pictures. Itzel and I made sure to take plenty and off to the next waterfall we went. It was the same torturous pain on my leg but the view was great. The fog and rain decided to join to make everything more majestic.

On the way down, Itzel and I got to talk about deep subjects because she was my partner and was stuck with me. It was great. I also got to save her a couple times from slipping and she saved me as well.

On our last day a fifteen minute hike turned into an hour hike and I was miserable and sore. I hadn’t eaten breakfast and I wanted to chop everyone’s heads off. I did not enjoy the scenery one bit. I was miserable I just wanted to go home to my bed, my mom, home cooked meals, private showers, and my wifi. I was so done. I felt like being in nature for three days made me turn a little insane.

On the bright side, I got to meet amazing new people: Olanda with her positivity and friendliness that radiates from her, Rosa with her sarcasm, Candice with her pretty face and kind nature and Mr. Navarro with his high spirits and selflessness.

I realized I am a full on city girl but I don’t regret going because I made a memory that will last a lifetime.