Rafting for Growth: Fostering Skills and Relationships at the BRIDGING IPOLS Series Closing Event
On Sunday, March 3, 2024, IPOLS achieved a notable success by organizing a thrilling Rafting excursion. Rafting, renowned for its blend of sport, recreation, adventure, and educational elements, provided participants with a holistic experience. Serving as the grand finale of the BRIDGING IPOLS series at the Faculty of Law, Muhammadiyah University of Yogyakarta (UMY), this activity was strategically chosen to invigorate participants and foster a sense of togetherness while strengthening relationships among students.
This activity was anticipated to serve a dual purpose, extending beyond mere relaxation following the culmination of the BRIDGING series. Rather, it was recognized as a valuable opportunity to enhance the soft skills and character development of students in preparation for their academic pursuits. Rafting, with its inherent challenges and demands for teamwork, was identified as a platform conducive to fostering leadership qualities, nurturing a cooperative spirit, honing communication skills, and boosting self-confidence among participants.
By navigating the waters and tackling obstacles as a team, students were presented with opportunities to exhibit leadership traits such as decision-making, problem-solving, and delegation. The collaborative nature of rafting encouraged individuals to work together towards a common goal, thereby strengthening their ability to cooperate effectively within a group setting. Additionally, the need for clear and concise communication while maneuvering the raft further refined students’ interpersonal skills and ability to convey ideas efficiently.
Moreover, overcoming the challenges presented by the river instilled a sense of accomplishment and self-assurance in participants, thereby bolstering their self-confidence. As students successfully navigated rapids and negotiated turbulent waters, they gained a newfound belief in their capabilities and resilience.
Overall, by engaging in rafting, students were not only afforded a thrilling recreational experience but also provided with a valuable opportunity to develop and refine essential soft skills crucial for their academic and personal growth. Thus, the activity served as a meaningful precursor to the challenges and rigors they would encounter in their academic endeavors.
