My time spent in Alaska was full of adventure, discovery, research, and stewardship. It was the most beautiful and breathtaking places that I have ever visited. I left with so many new memories and a desire to visit again. Before and during the trip I was most excited about the wildlife we may have seen and I was so eager to see a moose. We ended up sighting a total of three moose and that first sighting was one of the most enjoyable times. Alaska’s scenery, specifically the mountain views, left me speechless the entire time we were there. Seeing and admiring the mountains gave me this feeling of tranquility and content. One of the most impactful things we did there were silent reflections. These reflections took place while sitting in nature, usually on the ground and up against a tree, and I just got to take in everything around me. I got to silently admire the landscapes, smell the fresh air, and reflect on my thoughts. I say this was one of the most impactful things as it made me realize I need to participate in more silent reflections and really appreciate the world around me, even the small things.
While out there, we were split into issue groups that focused on different current issues in Alaska. My group focused on the hunting of brown bear and the regulations that surrounded it. I specifically focused on the regulations surrounding the ways that brown bear could be hunted and whether those ways were ethical or not. I have attached my final paper for the course below that details the research about this topic and includes conversations and references to people I met and talked with out in the field while in Alaska.
Alaska was truly a once in a life-time experience for me. Not only did I get to discover many of its natural beauties, but I also got to actively research and discuss issues important to their communities. I am truly grateful for the opportunity to take this course and visit Alaska and I look forward to visiting it again one day.