How wellbeing walks transformed these students’ University experience

Published on 28, July, 2025

A graduate and a student from the University of Sunderland have shared how wellbeing walks became one of the most impactful parts of their student experience.

University alum Jack Poulter and student Annika Lamerz were both encouraged during Freshers’ Week to take part in the University’s wellbeing walks.

The University’s Wellbeing Walks, run by Team Sunderland's Just Play programme and led by Reverend Chris Howson BEM, are open to all students. These weekly outings provide a chance for students to explore the north-east, meet new people, and take time away from academic stresses.

Team Sunderland’s Just Play programme aims to get students active at their own pace with no competition involved, and focuses on increasing participation in activity. Alongside the Wellbeing Walks, they run a series of other engaging activities throughout the week.

Joining the University through the ERASMUS+ programme from the University of Koblenz in Germany, Annika said: “Joining the walks was a no-brainer. I am fond of walking in general, and the beautiful landscapes around Sunderland had me sold almost immediately.

“Every week, I had something to look forward to. I so enjoyed immersing myself in the landscapes and Chris always had so much knowledge about the areas – which, as a history student, I really appreciated.”

Originally planning to stay in Sunderland for only one semester, Annika decided to extend her exchange, partly because of the experiences she had on the walks and in her academic studies.

Annika said: “Many factors played into that, but mostly it was the fact that I felt right at home. The University of Sunderland gave me opportunities to study subjects I couldn’t take in Germany.

“That’s why I chose to study film in my second semester - being able to study it was something I thoroughly enjoyed.”

Growing up in Sunderland, Jack, who completed his BA (Hons) Computer Systems Engineering (Top-Up) degree in 2023, said: “I didn’t know what to expect, I had never travelled far or gone on nature walks before.

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"I took Sunderland for granted before the Wellbeing Walks. I learnt how little I’d seen of what Sunderland has in plenty: beaches, forests, ruins, churches and so much history.

“Getting involved in these walks allowed a reset once a week and became an integral aspect of my university life. I’d always look forward to the walks as it was an opportunity to catch up with friends, take a few hours away from intense coursework, and to do so in stunning surroundings made it all the better.

“These walks led to me leading my own, taking on greater challenges, making new friends, and finding a new passion in the outdoors.”

Since graduating, Jack’s adventures haven’t stopped. He’s hiked in the Lake District, Whitby, Edinburgh, Holy Island, and Nenthead mine and has plans to explore the Cairngorms National Park in Scotland.

Jack added: “As such, when there’s an opportunity to try something new, like camping or rock climbing, I’m more willing to give it a go – something that before the walks I’d avoid. Not only has my physical fitness improved, but mentally I’m in a much happier mindset, utilising hiking as a form of stress relief and enjoyment.”

Alongside this, Jack also credits the walks with reigniting his passion for photography. “The walks really opened my eyes to what the country had to offer – a great variation in amazing experiences. Each of these has sharpened my camera skills and made me more confident in everyday life.”

His advice to current students is to “Try new things – even if they’re out of your comfort zone. University can be overwhelming, but there’s so much on offer. Taking a chance on the friendship evenings helped me make friends from around the globe.

“An hour in nature can be the best break, it’s said an hour in nature is worth hours of therapy and it really is a fantastic healer when dealing with stress.”

Find out more about how the University can help support students during their studies here.