Finals Break at the Lake: A Day to Recharge at Lake Carl Blackwell

On Friday, May 2nd, we took a group of students on a much-needed break from the usual hustle and the stress of preparing for finals. That break led us to an afternoon of fresh air and sunshine at Lake Carl Blackwell in Stillwater, OK.

With a strong turnout of 13 people, the outing was the perfect opportunity to reconnect with nature, unwind, and spend some real quality time together. We were out there for around four and a half hours, and not a single moment went to waste.

From the moment we arrived, the energy was all good. We brought out some classic yard games, played a few casual rounds of catch, and even got into a very competitive game of volleyball. Whether folks were playing, cheering from the sidelines, or simply relaxing and chatting, the whole day carried that easygoing, carefree vibe we all needed.

This event was made possible with support from the National Park Trust, whose mission is to connect people to the benefits of the outdoors — especially students who might not always get the chance to explore beyond campus. Through simple, local experiences like this one, students are reminded that spending time in nature doesn’t have to be complicated — and it can make a big difference for your mental and emotional well-being.

Sometimes, it’s not about going far — just stepping outside, being present, and sharing space with good people. Lake Carl Blackwell gave us exactly that and more. It was a simple but unforgettable outing, and we’re already looking forward to the next one.