Intra-National Travel: Gaining Perspective on America's Vast and Diverse Population
Boston, Massachussetts
While in Boston, I had the opportunity to follow the Freedom Trail! What an incredible opportunity to trace the path of our founding fathers and embrace the founding of our nation. From sitting in the Hall where the Boston Tea Party came to life to boarding the U.S.S. Constitution, which happens to be the oldest commissioned warship still in service in the United States today, Boston gave me the opportunity to see the evolution of colonial America and its interesting blend with modern culture. I was amazed at the elements of Irish culture I saw present when walking through the streets of Boston whether it be the clothing brands offered there, the street flower shops, or the Irish Famine monuments.
Cedar City, Utah
My Junior Year of college I was given the incredible opportunity to participate in a Partners in the Parks Trip to Cedar Breaks National Monument in Cedar City, Utah! An honors program initiative, Partners in the Parks gives college students the opportunity to collaborate with park rangers to study the management of National Parks and learn about the surrounding area. In Utah, I was most fascinated with the political circumstances surrounding park management! Being from the East Coast, land politics is not a regular part of my daily life, but it is for those in Utah. Some of Utah's citizens are concerned about government acquisition of land that their families' have owned for generations. This can adversely affect wildlife management and park practices.
New Orleans, Louisiana
I had heard so many things about New Orleans prior to visiting this past summer! But what really surprised me was how impressive the museums were! The Cabildo and Presbyter in Jackson Square were by far my favorites detailing the historical impacts of Spanish and French colonization as well as explaining the cultural significance of Mardi Gras. Hurricane Katrina took center stage showing the resilience of those who inhabited New Orleans in the early 2000s and those still managing the aftermath today. Since I was at an age where I could understand what was happening when Katrina came through, this was a very impactful and emotional exhibit for me.