In Spring 2024, Dr. Andrew Wilson, professor, and head of the Department of Religious Studies, along with a group of students from Mount Allison, traveled to the historic Camino de Santiago in Northern Spain.

This location attracts millions of travelers seeking spiritual, cultural, and personal enlightenment. However, for this group, the journey was more than just a walk. It was an immersive academic experience that combined rigorous fieldwork with a deep understanding of themselves and their world. 

Their journey began as a part of a course on contemporary pilgrimage practices.  

“I was teaching a course on contemporary pilgrimage practices, a subject that interests me. Drawing from my own experiences on traditional pilgrimages, I understood the significance of the walking aspect,” Wilson says. 

Upon sharing his personal pilgrimage experience with students, it became evident that there was a desire for an experiential approach.  

"The students inquired about the possibility of structuring a course that involved embarking on an actual pilgrimage.” 

Wilson created a course that combines historical, religious, and cultural knowledge with physical and mental strength.  "My research focuses on the connections between the sacred and the secular realms. I'm also interested in the growing popularity of pilgrimage among people who may not consider themselves religious.” 

Preparation for the Camino experience started months before the group went to Spain. The students received practical advice on essentials such as shoes, packs, food, and cultural insights about the journey ahead.  

The Camino de Santiago journey had its challenges. On the first day, the group couldn't find a place to stay after hours of walking.  

“We had to take taxis back to where we started, which was disheartening after so much walking," Wilson says. “But instead of bringing the students down, these challenges created a strong bond among them.” 

The weather was another big challenge.  

“One day, we walked through heavy rain, and many students got completely soaked. But instead of giving up, they supported each other." 

The trip had a profound impact on the students. It was not just about learning; it was also about personal growth. Galen Juliusson, a fourth-year psychology major with minors in Community Engaged Learning and Visual and Material Culture, captured the essence of the pilgrimage in his reflection: "Buen Camino," the phrase that embodies the very spirit of the Camino. “It demonstrates the sense of community between all pilgrims,” Juliusson says “Despite everyone having different backgrounds, everyone is the same on the Camino. Everyone is a pilgrim. From the silent pilgrims walking in solitude to the big group of rowdy Irish high school students, everyone took a second to say a quick 'Buen Camino' meaning, 'I see you, and I acknowledge your journey." Galen says.  

Anna Miller, a third-year Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) student with minors in Art History and Religious Studies, shared how the experience changed her perspective. "Learning in a completely different environment, exploring new ideas, and immersing ourselves in the culture helped us better understand the Camino and pilgrimages. It made us reflect on our goals and relationships, rethink our outlook, and strengthen our self-awareness," she says. 

Many students shared similar experiences on the Camino de Santiago. Malcolm Elder, a second-year student pursuing a BA with a psychology major, spoke about his personal growth. "Through recent struggles in my first year of university, doing something like this was perfect for me. I found that a sense of community was built amongst the class, which helped enhance the pilgrimage experience for me."  

The blending of cultures and history made an impression on the students. Percy Austin, a third-year BA student majoring in English with minors in Religious Studies and Drama, expressed, "A common response during my Camino trip was people taking the time to live in the moment. 'Live where your feet are' is a piece of advice I heard, and it is a good one to take to heart." "Even when things go wrong, you should focus on what to do now and not panic about the future. Just take things one step at a time, physically and emotionally," Percy says. 

Wilson is eager to organize similar trips in the future.  

"We would love to organize another class like this one. We were able to offset costs through generous funding from the J.E. Crake Foundation and the Department of Religious Studies.” 

Upon their return, students continued to work with community partners such as Trails Canada and the Catholic Archdiocese of Moncton to translate their experiences into projects highlighting walking and wellness benefits.  

CEWIL Canada generously supported this work, and it's a great example of how students can bring back what they've learned and apply it in meaningful ways," says Wilson 

As the students reflect on their time on the Camino de Santiago, they carry memories of the journey of growth that came with it.  

Miles Archibald, a second-year Aviation BCom student, shared, “I returned from this experience with new friends who traversed the Camino's trails and challenges with me. I made personal discoveries and gained insights into the world around me. I also found a new favorite professor who provided inspiration and guidance throughout the journey. Additionally, I developed a deep admiration for the profound history embedded along every trail. This journey of a lifetime will forever resonate within me, shaping my perspectives for years to come.”