My Global & Environmental Identity
Traveling has always been central to my family's life, giving me the chance to immerse myself in diverse cultures and explore new perspectives. These experiences have sparked my curiosity about how people express their identities and form connections through their cultural backgrounds. During our first GESC seminar, I was struck by the diversity in the room, people from different hometowns and with varied lineages, each bringing something unique. This strengthened my belief in the importance of global citizenship, a concept I feel deeply connected to. A conversation with my grandmother added a personal layer to my sense of identity. I was both surprised and proud when I learned about her immigration journey from Canada, where she searched for better job opportunities while going through a divorce and nearly being deported three times. Despite these obstacles, she supported two children and remained financially independent. Her resilience and strength made me proud of my family history, and I was eager to share this story with my group as a reflection of perseverance. While I feel in touch with my global citizenship, I still have room to grow as an environmentally conscious person. Living at boarding school makes it hard to control my ecological footprint, but when I’m home, I often think about how my actions affect the environment. I care deeply about issues like climate change and pollution, and I want to take more concrete steps toward helping our planet. This year, I aim to make a tangible impact at Loomis by raising awareness of global and environmental issues and learning more about the cultural immersion we sometimes lack.
Global & Environmental Resume
GESC-designated Courses
- Spanish IV
- Geography
- CL English IV: Magical Realism
- CL English IV: Literature and the Evironment
- CL History Sem: U.S. Immigration and Ethnicity
- CL History Sem: Modern East Asian History
- Ceramics I & II
- CL Soc Sci Sem: Globalization
Elective Courses
- Norton Center Intern: This role was created for me to develop a project that would impact the Hartford community through a school-wide initiative. My project involves organizing a homeless speaker panel for a school convocation, featuring Ralph, a local speaker, to share his story with the Loomis Chaffee community. Following the event, I will lead a care-package packing activity where inspired students can contribute by making packages for Hartford's homeless community. This position fulfills GESC requirements by allowing me to address global issues locally and turn my ideas into meaningful action.
GESC Experiential Education
Cuba: I had the privilege of joining a Loomis experiential trip to Cuba, where we explored how Cuban citizens' commitment to sustainability has supported their resilience through the U.S. embargo. The warmth and generosity of the Cuban communities gave me a fresh perspective on gratitude, as I witnessed people with limited resources showing appreciation and kindness. The trip’s purpose was to immerse us in a different culture, broadening our outlook, and Cuba truly stands out as one of the most memorable experiences. Our guide, Jesús, left a lasting impact with his knowledge of Cuban history and passion for learning, and I returned home with a deeper appreciation for nature and a desire to cultivate beauty in my own surroundings.
Learning Artifacts
GESC Coursework
- My Encanto essay for CL Magical Realism, a GESC course, connects to the Alvord Center Matrix through global awareness and interdisciplinary thinking. By analyzing Latin American literature, I explored how cultural narratives shape perspectives on fate, choice, and resilience, key themes in global and environmental issues.
- This essay was impactful because it helped me see deeper themes of resource scarcity and sustainability, similar to what I observed in Cuba. Just as Cuban communities adapted their farming methods, Encanto highlights resilience in adversity. This reinforced how storytelling can inspire innovative environmental solutions, making literature a tool for social change.
GESC Seminars
- Seminar #2: Our trip to the Connecticut Museum of Culture and History in Hartford was both enlightening and thought-provoking. Exploring the history of immigration to Hartford during periods of infrastructure development and global change, I gained a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by migrant communities. One of the most impactful lessons for me was learning about the various push and pull factors that influence families’ decisions to leave their homelands. This insight allowed me to appreciate the complex reasons families may stay or migrate and the unique obstacles associated with each choice. Another memorable activity involved examining suitcases representing what different individuals brought with them on their journeys. I was particularly moved by a suitcase belonging to a nine-year-old Chinese boy who traveled alone to Connecticut for a better education, with little knowledge of what awaited him in the U.S. This experience made me more empathetic, as I could imagine the courage required to embark on such an unknown path. As a Global and Environmental Scholar, this visit reinforced my understanding of how migrants navigate maintaining cultural ties while pursuing new opportunities. On an environmental level, I recognized how global challenges, like climate change, can influence migration as some areas become uninhabitable. I also saw connections between this museum visit and my U.S. Immigration and Ethnicity course, especially in learning about immigration patterns and the discrimination faced by certain groups.
- Seminar #4: Attending GESC Seminar #4 with AnaAlicia and Nourish My Soul highlighted the power of youth-led initiatives in transforming food systems for the better. AnaAlicia and her team took action by creating a nonprofit that promotes healthy living and sustainable food production, addressing food insecurity in Connecticut. Their solutions, such as introducing sustainable farming techniques that can be implemented in schools and homes, align with the Alvord Center Engaged Citizenship Matrix by fostering environmentally focused positive change. I was especially inspired by the connection between their work and what I learned about Cuba’s response to the U.S. embargo in my immigration class and during my visit to Cuba. In Cuba, people developed creative gardening solutions, like using recycled glass bottles for garden beds and repurposed water tanks for irrigation, to combat resource scarcity—just as AnaAlicia promotes innovative farming methods to make food systems more sustainable. This seminar made me more aware of my own environmental impact, particularly in reducing food waste and being mindful of energy consumption. Small actions, like turning off lights and maximizing product use, now feel like meaningful steps toward sustainability. Inspired by AnaAlicia’s work, I want to explore home gardening as a way to contribute to a more sustainable food system. Seeing how young people can lead impactful change has reinforced my commitment to environmental stewardship. This event reminded me that even small, intentional efforts can make a lasting difference in my community and beyond.
- Seminar #5: Attending Ollie Iverson’s GESC Capstone Project on Environmental Policy was both eye-opening and thought-provoking. The open Shultz-style discussion encouraged a wide range of opinions, prompting deep reflection and respectful debate. One major takeaway was how environmental issues, such as the “Drill, Baby, Drill” initiative, directly threaten indigenous lands and ecosystems, especially when driven by political agendas like those from the Trump administration. Another powerful moment was the debate about the United States pulling out of the Paris Agreement and whether global environmental efforts can succeed without U.S. leadership. This event strongly connected to the Engaged Citizenship Matrix, particularly the pillars of Enhancing Understanding and Taking Action. By listening to different viewpoints, I gained a broader perspective on how policy shapes environmental justice and global cooperation. I’m now inspired to learn more about how international climate agreements function and the role youth can play in shaping environmental policy. This conversation made it clear that being an informed global citizen requires not only knowledge, but a willingness to question, engage, and advocate for just solutions.
GESC Electives
Hartford Care Initiative as a Norton Center Intern
- This experience helped me develop leadership and organizational skills. Introducing the convocation speaker was a new challenge, and leading the Hartford Care Initiative showed me how effective teamwork can be. I was surprised by how quickly we finished assembling and distributing the care packages, exceeding our expectations. This opportunity came through my GESC-approved work job as a Norton Center intern under Mrs. Henderson’s advisory, which allowed me to take on a larger role in community engagement.
- This connects to the Alvord Center Engaged Citizenship Matrix through community engagement and leadership. Bringing in a speaker and organizing a service event combined education with direct action. It also reflects social responsibility, as it encouraged meaningful service within the Loomis Chaffee community while aligning with my role as a GESC scholar
GESC Experiential Education
1- Through the window, lush greenery and rolling hills stretch across the landscape, a stark contrast to the bustling streets of Havana. In front of the window rests a guitar, played by the homeowner’s daughter, filling the air with music. This moment stands out to me because of the warm hospitality we received, the peaceful change in scenery, and the abundance of animals we saw, which deepened my appreciation for Cuba’s rural beauty.
2- This bold and colorful sign serves as a proud emblem of Cuban identity, standing tall in the heart of the town. Despite the country's complex political and historical struggles, the resilience and pride of the Cuban people were evident everywhere. Including this image felt important to me, as it symbolizes the deep cultural strength and unity I witnessed throughout my trip.
3- This scenic view captures the striking contrast between the vast ocean and the busy highway running alongside it. The presence of vintage cars, still widely used today, is a testament to Cuba’s unique history and resourcefulness. This image reflects Havana’s charm—where history and modern life intertwine in a way I had never seen before.
4- In this photo, Jaime and I stand in the streets of a Havana neighborhood, just steps away from a lively plaza we had been exploring. Walking through the city, I was captivated by its vibrant energy, rich culture, and the friendliness of the locals. Exploring Havana was my favorite part of the trip, making this moment one of my most cherished memories.
Capstone Project
Mental Health Awareness Through Nature Initiatives
Project rationale
This project is a response to the fast-paced, high-pressure environment at Loomis, offering students moments of calm, reflection, and connection through nature. By weaving mental health awareness into creative outdoor experiences, it creates space for self-care, expression, and community. For me, it’s a deeply personal effort to encourage mindfulness and help others discover how the outdoors can support emotional well-being in small but powerful ways.
Target Audience
My target audience is the Loomis Chaffee student body, especially those feeling overwhelmed, isolated, or disconnected by academic and social pressures. This project is also meant for faculty and staff who support student wellness. By participating or simply observing, anyone in our community can gain a deeper appreciation for how nature and creativity can support mental health. It’s a reminder that healing and calm are accessible to everyone, often right outside our door.
Project Process
To complete our project, my partners Evie Flowers, Catie Collins, and I collaborated to design and host a series of mental health-focused events around campus. We began by researching how nature, creativity, movement, and community contribute to well-being. We promoted the events through word of mouth, daily bulletin announcements, and class meeting shout-outs, while also coordinating with faculty and securing spaces. One challenge we faced was that our first event didn’t go as planned, there were moments when the turnout or structure didn’t meet our expectations. We also worried about attendance for later events. However, we adapted quickly by gathering volunteers to help spread the word and encourage participation. By our final event, a cozy and well-attended S’mores Night with live music and mental health resources, we saw how our hard work paid off. It was a rewarding and affirming experience.
Visual Interests
Image to the Left: Chalk It Out Mental Health Awareness Event
Project Reflection (To be written upon conclusion of your Capstone, 250-300 words)
I feel incredibly proud of our final product and its impact on the Loomis community. Through our four events, we were able to create safe, engaging spaces where students could take a break from the academic rush, reconnect with nature, and prioritize their mental well-being. Events like Chalk It Out and S’mores Night were not just successful in terms of attendance, but also in the genuine conversations, laughter, and moments of peace they generated. Our goal was never just to host activities, it was to shift the way students think about wellness and encourage more regular interaction with the natural world as a tool for emotional support. This project connects deeply with the Alvord Center Matrix, particularly in the areas of Environmental Engagement and Wellness & Belonging. We examined how our physical environments affect our mental states, and intentionally used outdoor spaces to promote healing, mindfulness, and creative expression. We also built a sense of community by inviting students to slow down, reflect, and support one another in relaxed, inclusive environments. Personally, this project helped me grow as both a global and environmental scholar by showing me how nature-based wellness practices are relevant and adaptable across cultures and communities. The process pushed me to think about sustainability, not just in terms of the planet, but in terms of how we sustain ourselves emotionally in high-stress environments. Looking ahead, I envision this project as a model that can be adapted and continued at Loomis and beyond. With minimal materials and thoughtful planning, wellness events like these could become part of regular campus culture, supporting students in a deeper, more holistic way. I hope future students will feel inspired to expand on what we started.
GESC Reflection
Reflecting on my original Statement of Intent, I see how much I have grown through the GESC program at Loomis Chaffee. My early commitment to raising awareness about climate change and uplifting communities has deepened into tangible action through my senior capstone project, a four-part event series centered on the intersection of mental health, creativity, and nature. This project not only emphasized environmental wellness but also highlighted the power of community care, slow living, and mindfulness. Collaborating with Evie Flowers and Catie Collins, I applied research, leadership, and logistical planning to create meaningful spaces for reflection and connection on campus. I’ve grown from someone passionate about awareness into someone capable of curating impact through intentional, inclusive experiences. I also learned how to navigate challenges like inconsistent attendance and logistical uncertainty, gaining confidence in adapting and leading with compassion. My perspective has expanded beyond individual actions like composting and energy conservation to a more holistic view of environmentalism, one that embraces mental wellness, equity, and creative expression as integral parts of the solution. The Alvord Center Matrix’s focus on enhancing understanding, taking action, and cultivating empathy resonates deeply with this transformation. I leave GESC with a greater sense of purpose and a clearer voice as a global and environmental scholar, ready to keep building bridges between personal wellness and planetary care.