My Global & Environmental Identity
As a global and environmental citizen, I am deeply shaped by the interconnectedness of people, ecosystems, and cultures. Growing up in a diverse community with exposure to a wide range of cultures, I quickly developed an appreciation for how our actions impact not just our immediate surroundings but the world at large. My journey toward becoming a global citizen has been defined by my commitment to understanding environmental challenges from multiple perspectives, whether it’s climate change, conservation, or social justice. Global and environmental studies, to me, tools for understanding the world in its entirety. It offers a lens through which I can grasp the profound relationship between human societies and the natural world, recognizing that solutions to global environmental issues must consider cultural, political, and economic dimensions. These studies push me to think critically about sustainability, resource use, and environmental justice, reinforcing the belief that protecting the environment is not an isolated issue but one tied to social equity and global responsibility. One of my primary goals within the global environment studies program this year is to deepen my understanding of the ways in which different communities are affected by environmental degradation, and how diverse perspectives can lead to more inclusive and effective solutions. Additionally, I aim to develop practical skills in environmental advocacy, so I can contribute meaningfully to efforts aimed at addressing climate change and fostering sustainable development. Ultimately, I want to emerge from this program better equipped to engage with global environmental issues and advocate for a more just and sustainable world
Global & Environmental Resume
GESC-designated Courses
- World History
- CL English VI: Writing from the Arab World
- CL Spanish V
- Philosophy of Nonviolence
- Climate Change
- Ceramics I
- Advanced Seminar: History of the Present
- CL History: Immigration
Elective Courses
- CL History Seminar: Immigration and Ethnicity in the United States
- Learning about the immigration process and patterns in America was incredibly influential because it revealed how interconnected the world is through the movement of people, ideas, and cultures. Understanding the challenges and contributions of immigrants fostered a deeper appreciation for the resilience and diversity that shape American society. On a personal level, it highlighted the shared human experience of seeking opportunity, safety, or belonging, which helped build empathy for others’ journeys. Globally, it underscored how migration influences cultural exchange and economic development, creating connections between nations and communities.
Spain
Spain’s emphasis on human geography and language reveals how its history was shaped by the blending of diverse cultures. Through the study of regional influences, we see how the Iberian Peninsula was molded by Roman, Jewish, and Moorish civilizations, each contributing to Spain’s linguistic and cultural identity. This fusion is evident in the architecture, customs, and even the Spanish language, which carries traces of Arabic, Latin, and other influences. By understanding these layers of cultural integration, we gain insight into how Spain emerged as a unified yet diverse nation.
- Lights On Program: This program is designed by a local high school in NJ to support students affected by their environment filled with violence and poverty. Lights On provides them a safe space where they can engage in fun activities such as sports, face painting, and food with their community. Through this program we promote healthier lifestyles and foster connections, helping students develop a sense of belonging and access an outlet where they can enjoy themselves and live safer and more fulfilling lives one day at a time.
Learning Artifacts
GESC Coursework
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1APzOXLyafs4EcfO41vkX2w_uaPqM4X_hz-ajeyWxPKM/edit?usp=sharing
- This assignment aligns with the Alvord Center Matrix by fostering global awareness and cultural understanding, particularly regarding gender roles and narratives in Arab societies. By analyzing how Fadia Faqir dismantles Western misconceptions of Arab women, I became engaged with perspectives that challenge dominant narratives, promoting a more empathetic worldview. Furthermore, the themes of resistance and resilience connect to the take action aspect of the matrix, as the novel highlights struggles against patriarchal oppression, encouraging critical thinking about gender equity across cultures. This assignment was also particularly impactful because it pushed me to rethink how women’s identities are often misinterpreted through an external lens rather than their lived experiences. It deepened my understanding of the power of storytelling as a form of resistance, illustrating how personal narratives can reclaim agency in oppressive systems. Examining the ways Maha and Um Saad resisted societal norms also made me reflect on the importance of female solidarity and how collective defiance can challenge structures of power.
GESC Seminars
Visiting the Museum of Culture and History in Hartford provided an interesting opportunity to explore the interconnected and complex narratives of immigrant groups that have traveled to America and how they have shaped and continue to shape American society. Exploring the personal artifacts of migrants from around the world was particularly fascinating because it offered a glimpse into how global events such as famines, economic crises, and persecution have shaped individual journeys and interconnected communities across borders. Furthermore, reading the primary sources about prejudice in immigrant communities also enhanced my understanding about the importance of knowing their stories and experiences in order to locally and globally connect them. These firsthand accounts revealed the struggles immigrants faced from discrimination while also showcasing their strategies to fight back by organizing community groups, advocating for policy change, and celebrating their cultural identities. This has profoundly impacted my work as a Scholar by deepening my understanding of the interconnectedness between social justice and global issues in order to look at these studies with refined lenses. This trip connected with my CL History: Immigration and Ethnically elective because it provided more context to the experiences that immigrant communities faced and connected to the course themes of migration, identity, and social justice found in immigration patterns in American history. Overall, this trip has awakened a deep desire to learn about the people of this world and their life experiences because it interconnects us all. I hope to broaden my worldview and knowledge to become more aware of the complexities around me that define global and local communities.
Attending GESC Seminar #4 was an enlightening experience that showcased how AnaAlicia Cruz and her organization, Nourish My Soul, actively engage in fostering a just and sustainable food system. Through youth leadership and educational programs, they empower young individuals to become catalysts for positive change in their communities. One concrete example of their impactful work is the Farm Camp, where children aged 5-11 participate in hands-on activities that teach them about agriculture, environmental stewardship, and community engagement. This initiative not only educates youth about sustainable farming practices but also instills a sense of responsibility towards the environment. AnaAlicia’s discussion on food accessibility and global health issues resonated with me, especially when she facilitated an activity that prompted conversations about future challenges in food accessibility. Hearing different perspectives on how individuals anticipate being affected by these issues really showed the complexity of food security and the necessity for multifaceted solutions. This seminar has inspired me to dig deeper into the intersections of environmental sustainability, food justice, and community health. It has also encouraged me to reflect on my coursework related to environmental policy and global health in GESC, as well as previous campus events focused on sustainability which our school prides itself on. Overall, the event has inspired my interest in addressing global and environmental challenges through community engagement and education.
Attending GESC Seminar #5 with Rob Stevenson ’69, was a transformative experience that deepened my appreciation for citizen science and the natural world. One key takeaway was Stevenson’s emphasis on how everyday observations by non-scientists can contribute meaningfully to scientific research. This aligns with the “Develop Skills” pillar of the Alvord Center Engaged Citizenship Matrix, as it encourages us scholars to hone their observational abilities and contribute to broader scientific understanding. Another significant insight was the importance of slowing down and observing our immediate environment. Stevenson’s message resonated with the “Seek Knowledge” and “Enhance Understanding” pillars, prompting me to be more mindful and inquisitive about the biodiversity around me. The launch of the campus-wide BioBlitz, where participants used the iNaturalist app to document local species, exemplified the “Take Action” pillar by actively engaging the community in environmental stewardship. Engaging with the natural world in this hands-on manner not only enriches my scientific knowledge but also fosters a deeper connection to my community and environment.
GESC Electives
My CL Immigration and Ethnicity course meant a lot to me as a global and environmental scholar because it deepened my understanding of how human movement is shaped by political, social, and environmental forces. It helped me see how migration is not just a local issue, but a global one, tied to histories of colonization, climate change, and inequality. The course connected to the Matrix in Global Understanding by expanding my awareness of how interconnected our world truly is, and how identity and place are constantly in conversation. I began to develop a stronger sense of empathy and responsibility through learning about the lived experiences of immigrants and refugees. It challenged me to think critically about systems of power and how policies affect real people. Most importantly, it pushed me closer to my goal of becoming a globally conscious leader who understands and uplifts marginalized communities.
GESC Experiential Education
Capstone Project
Nuestra Mesa: https://fast.wistia.com/embed/channel/apn05gqnbd
Project rationale
This project is important to not only myself, but also my community as I honor the culturally diverse environment that we are in. Nuestra Mesa aims to celebrate a fraction of ones immense cultural identity and give them the platform to bring awareness and invite others to experience a glimpse of their world.
Target Audience
"Nuestra Mesa" is created for Pa’lante, Loomis’s Hispanic affinity group, and the diverse community around it. For Pa’lante, it offers a space to see their culture reflected through meaningful stories and recipes. At the same time, it invites the broader community to learn about Hispanic traditions through food. By sharing personal narratives behind each dish, the project fosters cultural appreciation and connection, encouraging inclusivity and deeper understanding on campus.
Project Process
Creating "Nuestra Mesa" was both rewarding and challenging. I met with Ms. Forrester, Mr. Corjulo, and Ms. Hutch, who helped refine the project’s vision, but perfecting it took time. I faced technological challenges in deciding what platform to use and editing the videos to be engaging , requiring adjustments along the way. Interviewing recipe contributors was another key part of the process. To truly capture the meaning behind each dish, I developed thoughtful questions that encouraged them to share personal stories. However, scheduling these interviews was difficult, as I had to accommodate everyone’s availability, which often delayed my progress. Despite these challenges, "Nuestra Mesa" became more than just a collection of recipes—it turned into a platform for storytelling and cultural preservation. Through this experience, I learned how food connects people to their heritage and how patience and adaptability are essential in bringing a vision to life.
Visual Interests
Add images of the project process and/or final product. (There is no minimum number of images, as this is largely based on individual experiences and project trajectories.)
Project Reflection (To be written upon conclusion of your Capstone, 250-300 words)
I feel incredibly proud of Nuestra Mesa and the impact it can have in celebrating and preserving Hispanic culture through food and storytelling. By sharing personal narratives and traditional recipes, this project fosters cultural appreciation and connection, ensuring that these traditions continue to be honored. Nuestra Mesa aligns with the Alvord Center Matrix by promoting cross-cultural understanding and global awareness. It encourages engaged citizenship by highlighting the significance of heritage and identity, allowing people to appreciate the richness of Hispanic culture in a meaningful way. Through this project, I have grown as a global scholar by deepening my understanding of how food serves as a universal language, bridging generations and communities. I have also strengthened my ability to document and share diverse cultural experiences in a way that fosters empathy and learning. In the future, I envision Nuestra Mesa as a living archive, expanding to include more voices and traditions. It could serve as a resource for educators, students, and anyone interested in exploring culture through food, ensuring that these recipes and stories are never forgotten.
GESC Reflection (150-300 words)
Throughout my time at Loomis Chaffee, the GESC has been incredibly impactful in shaping my experiences as a global and environmental scholar. From the outset, my enthusiasm for learning and exploration led me to seek opportunities that would allow me to grow both academically and personally. The GESC provided a structured yet flexible framework to pursue these opportunities, combining rigorous coursework with experiential learning. Despite encountering various challenges, my passion and curiosity for global and environmental studies remained steadfast. Participating in the IEP was a transformative experience that deepened my understanding of global interconnectedness. Engaging directly with diverse cultures and environmental issues abroad allowed me to apply classroom knowledge to real world scenarios, enhancing my perspective. The GESC seminars and capstone project further enriched my educational process. These components encouraged me to dig deeper into environmental topics and develop practical solutions to combating global challenges. I was able to translate my ideas into actionable projects that aimed to make a tangible difference in our community. Reflecting on my experiences, I recognize that the GESC program has not only expanded my academic horizons but also instilled in me a lifelong commitment to environmental stewardship and global citizenship. I am grateful for the opportunities and support provided by the GESC, which have empowered me to pursue my passions and contribute meaningfully to the world around me.
Finishing Touches
Check spelling/grammar, check links, and insert some images to enhance visual interest.