United States: Madelyn Anderson
Program: Wild Rockies Field Institute, Summer
Madelyn’s Majors: Environmental Studies, Life Sciences Communication
What is your most memorable experience from your program?
During our first homestay, we camped on farmland along the Pecos River. My fellow artists and I spent a sunny afternoon creating natural paint and dye from found materials, playing with the pitches of grass, and wading in the water. Lazing on the hot New Mexico rocks with dirt-covered hands, I felt home.
The faculty and other students live so authentically, and are constantly looking for ways to support you.
What did you learn about yourself or the world because of your experience?
This experience has completely changed my relationship with water. Originally, I was unsure if I would enjoy spending time trekking in the desert. Coming from the land of 10,000 lakes, I’ve always made art about rivers, creeks, and streams. I feel most inspired when I’m near water. In New Mexico, this resource is scarce and every drop has been sold to other states before it even rains. However, I have never felt as close to the river as I have when tracing the paths it used to run and soaking up the rare waves we would get. It opened my eyes to how water has a carved out a place in other cultures.
How did your identities impact your experience? What advice would you give to students with similar identities who are considering a similar experience?
As a queer person, this program was transformative. The faculty and other students live so authentically, and are constantly looking for ways to support you. I encountered many people to hold community space with, and we celebrated our wonderful weirdness together.