"The programmers kept telling us that we had every right to sit out if we ever felt uncomfortable during the camp," she said.

Now, I am not rallying for the revival of controversial activities at such camps. As a freshman, I spent a week prior to the university freshman-induction camp in anticipation of its reputedly questionable activities.

Despite fearing the harsh realities of such a rite of passage, there was excitement at the thought of overcoming it and "earning" my place among my peers.

But instead, I attended a camp where facilitators carried water bottles for freshmen during activities like a fivehour- long Amazing Race-style activity.

Freshmen also enjoyed luxuries such as McDonald's breakfasts, Koi bubble tea and Sarpino's pizza on some days of the camp.

The dirtiest activity in the remodelled version of ragging was sliding chest first in soapy water on a canvas sheet, and being blindfolded as they scampered round the beach during a game.

Mild activities aside, the freshman induction at least served its main purpose, as freshmen made new friends for a new phase of their lives.

Call me a thrillseeker, but I wished that the camp conditions and activities had been a little edgier.

This would let freshmen come away not only with the strong bonds of friendship - which would help them both in university life and their future endeavours - but also unforgettable memories to look back on, which may perhaps bring a smile to their faces in the future.

At the very least, ragging forces us to conquer our fear of humiliation, and do something totally out of character for the benefit of our orientation team.

So, perhaps drinking "toilet water" wouldn't be bad for a start.

aliang@sph.com.sg

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