No Wi-Fi, no phones, no laptops—farewell to the familiar world of technology and the hustle and bustle of city life. Dewey’s young explorers embarked on a true survival adventure at the Outward Bound Summer Camp* in Bình Định.
Right from day one, the camp was filled with team-bonding activities. Under the guidance of seasoned instructors, campers quickly adapted to experiential learning methods, organized their belongings, and mentally prepared themselves for the challenging journey ahead. For many, this was their first time undertaking a multi-day trekking expedition, carrying backpacks weighing nearly 10kg across rugged terrain and braving harsh weather conditions.
“There were narrow trails clinging to rocky cliffs and steep slopes without any marked paths, forcing us to cling to the rocks to climb up. The difficulties weren’t just physical—under the scorching sun, we also had to learn how to navigate using paper maps and compasses,” shared Kiều Trinh, a camper at Outward Bound.
Faced with the grandeur of nature, the group felt small and humbled. Yet, it was in these very moments that their spirit of perseverance shone brighter than ever. Standing atop the mountain, gazing at the endless stretch of deep blue sea, or witnessing the sunrise after a stormy night in a tent—these experiences felt like well-earned rewards for their courage and resilience.
At Outward Bound, teamwork was the key to survival. Challenges such as pitching tents, building rafts, and kayaking demanded strategy, coordination, and mutual support. “Without technology, we talked and connected more. Every challenge brought us closer together. We shared orange slices, food, and water, and kept each other motivated. Thanks to that solidarity, we reached the final destination as one,” recalled Lam Anh and Thành Nguyên.
On the final night, gathered around the campfire, Dewey campers took time to reflect, listen, and share the invaluable lessons they had learned throughout the five-day journey—lessons in survival skills, teamwork, perseverance, and inner strength in the face of adversity.
Worn-out shoes, clothes torn by thorns, and hands marked with calluses and scratches—these became badges of honor for the campers. Together, they overcame both physical and mental challenges. And perhaps the most precious treasure these Dewey explorers discovered on their journey was a stronger, braver version of themselves—ready to push past their limits.
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*Outward Bound (OBV) is a nonprofit organization offering experiential outdoor learning programs focused on personal development. Originating in the UK in 1941, the organization has welcomed over 250,000 participants worldwide. This year, the Outward Bound Vietnam (OBV) program for Dewey’s Grade 10–11 students took place over five days at the OBV Bình Định base.
