I am a WRFI alumni and I recently earned my Environmental Science degree from the University of Wisconsin-River Falls. In 2021, I embarked on my favorite adventure ever, after enrolling in WRFI’s Environmental Ethics course! During this course, my group and I met in Missoula, and backpacked through the Bob Marshall Wilderness and parts of Glacier National Park for 3 weeks while studying philosophy concepts.

Committing to three weeks studying in Montana’s backcountry was one of my best decisions I’ve made. I will always be thankful for the life lessons learned along the way, and for the amazing people that I got to know when I was out there. Taking a break from the typical brick-and-mortar class setting and transitioning to an outdoor learning environment is a daunting task, and it definitely was well worth it. Being immersed in nature while learning about philosophy and environmental ethics is a one of a kind experience. I learned so much about the world and about myself in those three weeks, and it surely made my desired path for future endeavors clearer.

Since returning to Wisconsin, I’ve earned my college degree, spent lots of time backpacking in northern Minnesota, and I’ve landed a career in Natural Resources! The backcountry of Montana is still on my mind often, and I hope to make another trip out west this year! I love reminiscing on my WRFI experience, and I would be happy to answer questions from anyone or just chat!