Joining the NYSC camp is a big part of every graduate’s life in Nigeria. One of the most challenging parts of the camp experience is the daily parade.
For many, the parade can be stressful and tiring. However, there are ways to make this aspect of camp life more manageable.
Here are seven (7) simple tips to help you avoid the stress of the NYSC camp parade. These tips will help you stay relaxed and enjoy your time at the camp without feeling overwhelmed by the daily drills.
How to Avoid Stressful Parades in the NYSC Camp
The NYSC camp can be an exciting experience, but the daily parades and drills can be quite stressful for some.
If you’re looking for ways to avoid these activities, here are five practical tips that can help:
1. Join One Camp Activities Body
One of the surest ways to reduce stress in camp is by joining a camp activities body. Although you’ll be involved in planning and organizing camp activities, you may get exemptions from many demanding activities like parades and lectures.
Being part of groups like the Orientation Broadcasting Service (OBS) or the NYSC band can offer a more relaxed and enjoyable camp experience.
2. Become a Line Guard
In some camps, there’s a need for someone to watch over the hall on behalf of other members. If you volunteer to become a line guard, you’ll be tasked with staying in the hall to safeguard others’ property.
This role can provide a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of camp activities, allowing you to avoid stressful parades.
3. Fake Sickness
While it might sound humorous, faking sickness is a common tactic used by many corps members to avoid rigorous camp activities. Pretending to have malaria, a menstrual period, or a cold can get you a pass to stay in the clinic. This way, you can avoid the stress of daily parades and drills.
4. Use Medical Exemption
If you have a genuine health condition, you can obtain a medical exemption. Visit the camp clinic with relevant medical documents from a recognized hospital that clearly state your condition.
If the medical staff validates your case, you’ll be exempted from parades and other physically demanding activities.
5. Join the Band
The NYSC band is another great option to consider. Band members have less stressful routines compared to others. They mainly focus on rehearsals and playing music during official functions. Joining the band can be a fun way to avoid the hard work of parades and drilling.
6. Join the Red Cross
If you have a background in health-related courses, joining the Red Cross can be a good option. Members of the Red Cross are responsible for attending to health emergencies and providing first aid in the camp.
This role not only helps you avoid parades but also allows you to contribute meaningfully to the wellbeing of others in the camp.
7. Join the Orientation Broadcasting Service (OBS)
The OBS team is responsible for disseminating information to corps members within the camp. They start each day with the national and NYSC anthems and provide updates throughout the day. Being part of OBS can keep you busy with meaningful tasks while exempting you from the stress of parades.
Conclusion
Avoiding parades in NYSC camp doesn’t have to be a challenge. By getting involved in alternative activities that suit your interests and skills, you can make your camp experience more enjoyable and less stressful. Choose a strategy that works best for you, and make the most of your time in the NYSC camp!