My third semester at UMass has been demanding yet rewarding. This semester, I learned a lot academically and socially. So many moving parts in the college atmosphere are different from our small island community, which overwhelms and amazes me. This fall, I've already begun my plans to move into a house with my best friends for next year, which is exciting. I'm looking forward to gaining more independence. I took rigorous courses such as physics, chemistry, and statistics this fall semester. Balancing these classes has been tough, but they are the foundations for interesting higher-level classes, and these courses have taught me many necessary lab skills. I've also joined the Geo Science club this semester, which has connected me with intelligent and kind upperclassmen who have inspired me. Next semester, I'm taking another geology lab where we will learn hands-on about stream processes, mountain belts, geologic time scales, and more. I'm thrilled to further my geology knowledge and take classes next semester such as environmental economics, environmental career planning, "Ecosystems, Biodiversity, and Global Change," and other courses. Next semester, I'm looking forward to joining lab research as well. Though I'm expanding my knowledge of the sciences, I will be joining "University Chorale," a mixed chorus ensemble next semester. I'm enthusiastic about getting back to singing, which helps clear my mind of any anxiety and stress. The Minnesinger group has had a lasting impact on my love for music. There is something magical about singing in a chorus. I've missed singing so much, and it will positively impact me mentally and academically. I've had a spectacular past fall but wouldn't be here without MVYouth. MVYouth inspires me to push myself to follow my passions and put my best foot forward. I'm so grateful to MVYouth for the opportunities they provide for me and my community.

My first semester at college flew by. UMass Amherst was exactly what I needed in a school. UMass is full of pride, opportunities, great people, dedicated professors, and #1 dining. UMass has the most welcoming people I’ve ever met, and everyone is willing to lend a helping hand. Coming from an island, transitioning to one of the largest universities wasn’t easy, but the professors and people have made me feel like I can do anything. I feel myself becoming more independent every day that I spend there. I know the friends I have met this semester will be in my life for a long time, and I’m so grateful to have the environment UMass, Amherst provides.

I was overwhelmed at first by the opportunities that were everywhere, but I went to club fairs in the first weeks and joined the Outing Club and MASSPIRG. MASSPIRG is an awesome student advocacy group that supports climate action and voting rights. I got involved on my way to class when their tabling crew helped me sign up to vote on the spot. Their members seemed like great people dedicated to the climate crisis. The Outing Club strives to get people in nature by hosting trips like cave diving and climbing local mountains. I’m excited to attend another spring club fair and join more groups.

These months at UMass have been fantastic, and I look forward to many more. My classes and professors have made me want to explore what I can do as an environmental science major. I’m thinking of double majoring or minoring in Natural Resource Conservation or Geoscience. There are endless opportunities college has provided me, and I’m so thankful to have the support of MVYouth. I would have had a much more stressful college life without MVYouth behind me. I’m very grateful to come from such a beautiful island with such generous people.