I’m from south Florida and I currently attend Clemson University, where I study biological sciences. My career goal is to become a medical doctor. I was raised in an environment that allowed me to grow up with an appreciation for the earth and its beauty. When I was a child, and to this day, my family and I frequently enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, canoeing, kayaking, snorkeling, and going for nature walks. I attended Western High School, where I took many AP classes and worked hard to maintain good grades as a student. One of the classes that highly influenced me was AP environmental science, in which I learned about some of the dangers to our planet and the effects that are, and will, take place. My environmental interests were put on hold for a while, until I found Project Green. When October 1st eventually rolled around I received an email from PG regarding the first day’s challenges. I was at the library doing an assignment, but after learning more about Project Green and its message I was immediately drawn into making a submission. Little did I know at this point that my first submission would lead to a life changing month long experience that allowed me to rekindle my passion for our planet’s well-being. What most inspired me over the past 30 days was the amount of power and influence that one may obtain just by putting in the time and effort. Over the past month I have learned so much in such a small amount of time, and I have discovered that despite my busy schedule, there was always time for carrying out conscious and sustainable practices. I just needed someone – something – to allow me to prove that concept to myself. I was amazed by how much I didn’t know about my food, waste, clothing, beauty and cleaning products, etc. I never realized how big of a problem our human consumption and practices were until this month. Project Green has made an impact on me, and has allowed me to reverse my habits to work towards the betterment of our planet and the people within it.
Life-changing, Thought-provoking, Connection, Perseverance, Creativity
One of the most memorable moments of PGC 2017 was when I was completing Day 14 Adventure. I went on a hike in one of the state parks where I live with my mom and close friend William. We had so much fun exploring the trails and trying to spot different plant and animal species, as the scavenger hunt called for. I really do not get the chance to spend time with my mom that often, and going to Table Rock State Park was a great opportunity for my mom and I to share some happy memories together. I will never forget the beauty of the waterfalls, the peaceful sounds of water rushing down the slopes of the rocks, and rushing of wind through the trees and bushes.
During our hike it actually started pouring rain, and the three of us had to run all the way down the trail as a river of rainwater rushes down the slopes with us. Once we got to the end of the trail we were soaked with rain from head to toe. I thought it was a funny event that reminded me to not take everything so seriously and to enjoy the spontaneity of nature.
Before Project Green, I always thought that my personal actions have little influence over others. Through my participation I have learned that my individual decisions have significant consequences relating to people and the environment in which we inhabit. Throughout PGC, I watched as my communication with others about the environmental issues expressed in the daily themes sparked interest within my peers, friends, and family, that caused them to adopt more sustainable daily practices. PGC has allowed me to believe in myself, that I have the power to accomplish anything that I set my mind to. One of the most inspiring videos that I had watched during PGC was the Ted Talk by Natalie Warne, in which her vision, passion, and hard work lead her to success in accomplishing her goal. Although I am young, and although I may not know everything there is to know, I can choose to be a part of something positive and work to make my environmental ideals become realities.
