During my first year at the University of Georgia, I enrolled in a captivating course titled “Geography 1125: Resources, Society, and the Environment,” which delved into the intricate relationship between physical systems, human activity, and their impact on the environment. It was during this course that I discovered my passion for exploring the theme of interconnectivity – a notion that I have since devoted my entire college career to investigating further.
As I delved deeper into the course material, I was fascinated by the broad range of topics covered, from climate change, waste management, to urban sprawl. I was also privileged to study the minutiae of these subjects, from the sulfur cycle, oil formation, to nuclear energy, and the earth-sun relationship. However, what struck me most was the interconnectedness of these issues. Each element, regardless of its scope or scale, had a ripple effect on the planet and society.
As a future landscape architect, I am acutely aware that every design I create will have a direct impact on the environment and the community. I firmly believe that it is my responsibility to ensure that my designs contribute positively to the world. Every process, every decision, every action we take has a domino effect, and it is essential to consider the greater implications of our actions.
During this course, I had the opportunity to participate in a service learning project of my own choosing. I decided to volunteer at the Athens Land Trust, a local farm in Athens, GA. By assisting the managers with tasks such as weeding, gardening, and mulching, I gained valuable experience in horticulture. More importantly, however, this experience helped me ground myself amidst the chaos of my freshman year. The environment at the farm was vastly different from that of the campus, and it reminded me of the crucial role that nature plays in my life. My connection to nature helps me stay true to myself, and this experience only reinforced that notion. Although I had some prior gardening experience, my time at the Athens Land Trust exposed me to the intricacies of large-scale gardening. Most importantly, volunteering at the farm reignited my passion for reconnecting people with nature. Many individuals are unaware of the joys and benefits that nature can bring, and I hope to work towards changing that as a future landscape architect.
In conclusion, my experience in “Geography 1125” was a pivotal moment in my academic journey. It has inspired me to approach my work from a holistic perspective, considering the interconnectedness of all things. I am committed to utilizing this knowledge and mindset to create landscape architecture designs that make a positive impact on the world.