Hey! I’m Claire Stowe, a University of Wisconsin – Madison and WRFI alumna. I graduated UW in the spring (May 2020) with degrees in Environmental Studies, Geography and a certificate in Food Systems. I participated in the Cycle the Rockies course in the summer of 2018! Originally, I am from Milwaukee, Wisconsin but now have been living here in Madison, WI for 5 years.

When I first heard about Wild Rockies during a lunch meeting on campus I found myself impatient to get home that night and start my application. I grew up going on yearly camping trips with my family and had embarked on a few multiple night trips with different groups but never for more than a week or two. I was also starting to get into road biking and as my mode of transportation to class and work. So when I heard about Cycle the Rockies I knew I had to try it and combine two of my favorite activities. I was not disappointed, it ended up being one of my favorite memories and opportunities from my college career.

Not only did it provide me with an opportunity to earn college credits while exploring things I love, it allowed me to meet some amazing people. Everyone from my classmates, instructors, and local Montanans we meet along the way were what I think made the course what it was. My instructors taught and showed me so many new things while challenging us to think critically and holistically about the places around us. My fellow classmates each brought their unique life experiences and became some great friends who I hope to continue to stay in contact with. However, meeting the different ranchers, miners, writers, and all the other locals was probably my favorite part. It really allowed us to see different subjects through new perspectives, especially those directly affected.

Feel free to reach out to me with any questions about WRFI, Cycle the Rockies, or anything UW-Madison specific.