The Duke of Edinburgh Award was one of the most challenging experiences of my life. I have achieved the Bronze, Silver and Gold awards. My Gold Expedition was the most challenging of them all. On the first day we had to wade through overflowing rivers which had obstructed our path. We laughed and cried on multiple occasions. We had to wild camp in the middle of Dartmoor due to us not reaching our campsite before it got dark. We were all soaked, along with our tents and sleeping gear. It was probably the worst nights sleep I have ever had. However, the next day, once we had reached our campsite, we felt a sense of pride and accomplishment in having gotten through the difficulties that we had faced. We all bonded and learnt the value of teamwork. We had to keep each other's morale up in order to persevere and achieve our goal. I made one of my best friends through the Duke of Edinburgh award and I am proud of myself and the team for achieving the award. It was such a challenge that at one point, I did not think I would overcome. Also, for my residential, I got the opportunity to go to Tanzania and help out at an orphanage with the other Duke of Edinburgh participants from my church. I am forever thankful for the opportunity to do this award and the experiences and skills that it has given me.