The Experience Exchange Inaugural Edition

THE EXPERIENCE EXCHANGE

1 | MARCH 2025

NATURE, INDUSTRY, & THE FUTURE OF THE PLANET THE EXTINCTION OF EXPERIENCE: WHAT’S AT STAKE?

How modern life distances us from nature—and why that matters.

WHERE WE WALK, WHAT WE SEE: STORIES OF NATURE & EXPLORATION

From the Scottish Highlands to the Atacama Desert, discover how place shapes our connection to the world.

Lithium mining, climate finance, and the environmental cost of progress—what does a just future look like?

OUR MISSION

3 1 2

DRIVE POSITIVE CHANGE

Use compelling storytelling, diverse writing styles, and photography to inspire social & environmental progress.

FROM THE EDITOR

BY SOFIA IUTERI | FOUNDER & EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

EXPLORE HUMAN-NATURE RELATIONSHIPS

Investigate and highlight the intricate relationships between people and the natural world.

DEVELOP HANDSON PUBLISHING EXPERIENCE

Gain real-world skills in writing, editing, and production, while creating revenue opportunities through strategic local partnerships.

It wasn’t until I turned 15, during the pandemic, that I realized how fortunate I was to live near an accessible, clean, and beautiful beach: Tod’s Point in Greenwich, CT. Whenever my friends visited, a trip to Tod’s Point was always on our bucket list of nonnegotiable adventures. Whether we biked for miles along the loop, scoured the sand for rare sea glass, or ran cross-country races there, that beach became more than just a park—it was a space of freedom, reflection, and joy.

It was a place where I could exist outside and separate from the hustle culture of school and my beloved sport of 10 years—gymnastics. It was a place to cool off from the warm New England summer air. A place for açaí bowls and picnic dinners, where the sun would set on long summers before a return to school—bringing a new year of academic rigor, personal growth, and intellectual development. Tod’s Point has shaped my appreciation of nature as more than just a backdrop; it’s a source of renewal.

Since arriving at Washington & Lee University, I’ve been intentional about making nature an everyday part of my life. Whether through the Outing Club, daily walks or runs, handstands in the grass, or quiet moments of meditation on the Colonnade (thank you to my friend Stella for teaching me the importance of slowing down), I’ve found that getting outside—no matter the weather—is more beneficial than any vitamin or painkiller. Nature is where I unravel my deepest fears and celebrate my greatest joys.

This evolving appreciation for nature has also shaped my academic path in environmental economics, where I analyze real-world solutions to modern environmental challenges. But a personal love for nature isn’t enough—we must also recognize the extinction of experience, a term introduced to me by my mentor, Professor Margalus. It describes the gradual loss of meaningful human interactions with the natural world. If we lose that connection, how can we expect to protect what we no longer value?

That question led me to start The Experience Exchange. I recognized a gap in publications—a lack of spaces where people could share formal and informal experiences in nature. This magazine seeks to fill that void, offering a platform for stories that inspire, inform, and reconnect us to our shared home. Through this edition, our team hopes to highlight the intricate relationships between humans and nature, drive awareness, and foster engagement that combats the extinction of experience.

Whether you’re an avid outdoors enthusiast or simply someone curious about deepening your connection to nature, The Experience Exchange is for you. This is a welcoming space—no prior environmental activism is required. Curiosity is enough.

So, dive in, discover, connect, and reflect. Let’s combat the extinction of experience, one story at a time.

PHOTO BY LILY NANNINI

OPENING

Letter from the Editor by Sofia Iuteri

3-7) The Destructive Dissociation Between the Self and Nature by Sofia Iuteri

PERSONAL REFLECTIONS & CONNECTION TO NATURE

8-9) Escape to Nature By Lily Nannini

10-11) The People and the Sea by Rhonica A. Connor

12-13) Deepening My Connection to Nature through Art by Annie Whitman

ACADEMIC & GLOBAL

ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES

15-22) Lithium Extractivism in the Atacama & The Green Energy Transition by Charlie Wohlgemuth

25-27) COP29 in Baku: A New Deal on Climate Finance by Charlie Wohlgemuth by Kaia Beddows

PERSONAL NARRATIVES & OUTDOOR ADVENTURES

29-30) Love Letter to the Outing Club by Townsend Dotterer

31-38) Beneath the Surface: Uncovering the Geologic Stories of the American West by Sofia Iuteri

41) Summer Research and Natural Bridge

43) The 2024 Kendrick Award: 4 Girl’s Journeys to Reconnect with Nature by Nora Jacobson

GLOBAL TRAVEL & EXPLORATION

45) Arthur’s Seat, The Scottish Lowlands, and The English Countryside by Margaret A. Coughlan

47-55) Explore Cape Cod: The Guidebook to the Lower & Outer Cape by Lily Nannini

57-58) Each Step, A Story by Vivianna Vasquez

59-60) Global Footprints by Darby Burgett

POETIC & REFLECTIVE CLOSING

61) The Tadpole with Legs by India Balkaran FEATURED VISUALS

23-24) Full Arch Milky Way Panorama photo by Dylan Reher

39-40) Colonnade & Aurora Borealis photo by Dylan Reher

The Destructive Dissociation Between the Self and Nature

Story by Sofia Iuteri, photos by Dylan Reher and layout by Kate Keeley.

Humanity’s relationship with nature, complicated by climate change, is indefinitely evolving. Revered short story author and 2006 MacArthur Genius Award recipient George Saunders published his satirical short story “Jon” in 2007. Nearly seven years later, Marshallese poet and environmental activist Kathy Jetñil-Kijiner read her poem, “Dear Matafele Peinem,” aloud at the 2014 United Nations Climate Summit, addressing it to her infant daughter. Both Jetñil-Kijiner’s “Dear Matafele Peinem” and Saunders’ “Jon” explore the dissociative relationship between the civilized self and nature, highlighting an urgent need for change, the dehumanizing loss of homeland and culture, and the construction of a segregated dystopian near-future through satire. Ultimately, both works expose how ignorance manifests as devastating consequences for both the environment and humanity.

Jetñil-Kijiner’s “Dear Matafele Peinem” captures the dehumanizing effects of climate change through vivid portrayals of the degradation of her home–the Marshall Islands. By emphasizing the disastrous consequences that will continue to erode humanity, culture, and the environment should society remain ignorant, JetñilKijiner challenges the existing dissociation between humans and nature.

Written as a letter to her sixmonth-old daughter, JetñilKijiner’s poem serves as a direct plea to those in power, particularly policymakers. She opens with gentle, euphonious diction, depicting her child with purity as she describes Matafele as “bald as the Buddha”

(Jetñil-Kijiner 1.3). This imagery of untainted innocence calls into question society’s morality in placing the burden of climate change on younger generations. In a podcast interview titled “Ecological Hope and Spiritual Evolution,” Christiana Figueres discusses the psychological toll of this expectation, stating that it

Photo by Dylan Reher.

often forces adolescents into “freeze mode,” leading them to “pull the covers over themselves because of… burnout.” Similarly, Jetñil-Kijiner contrasts moral wrongdoing with her daughter’s simple, undisturbed joys—“excit[ment] for bananas” and “hugs and [their] morning walks past the lagoon” (Jetñil-Kijiner 1.5-6).

Jetñil-Kijiner then introduces the tangible effects of climate change, personalizing its impact and emphasizing the impending threat of unlivable conditions for future generations. She personifies the lagoon near her home, warning her daughter that it will “gulp down rows of your seawalls” and “crunch your island’s shattered bones” (Jetñil-Kijiner 1.11-12). She also presents a chilling prediction: an inevitable future where her daughter and future generations “will wander rootless with only a passport to call home” (Jetñil-Kijiner 1.15-16). This powerful line underscores the existential threat of climate change—not just the loss of land but the erasure of cultural identity. Through this environmental activism, Jetñil-Kijiner conveys the urgency of acknowledging and addressing the fragility of island ecosystems before the damage becomes irreversible. By creating vivid imagery that motivates even those with the most divergent viewpoints to participate in a standing ovation, Jetñil-Kijiner enables those who have never been touched by climate change to briefly experience the suffering it entails.

Jetñil-Kijiner also critiques the geographic and ideological separation between those in power and the communities affected by their decisions. She condemns “backwater bullying of business with broken morals” and “blindfolded bureaucracies” (Jetñil-Kijiner 1.24-25), employing alliteration to create a rapid cadence of her speech during these lines of the poem, which

builds in vigor with each word and nearly shouts a sense of urgency to the audience. This sharp contrast to the poem’s serene opening illustrates the growing frustration of those most affected by climate change. Jetñil-Kijiner reinforces this point by exposing the willful ignorance of decision-makers, stating that “hidden behind platinum titles,” they “pretend that… hurricanes, earthquakes, [and] tidal waves didn’t exist” (Jetñil-Kijiner 1.46-57). By unmasking this facade of power and prestige, she highlights the dangers of ignoring scientific warnings and failing to act against worsening natural disasters. Unlike many environmental narratives that emphasize despair, Jetñil-Kijiner concludes with a message of hope. She assures her daughter, “I won’t let [you] down” (JetñilKijiner 1.93), and unites her community’s efforts by declaring, “we are families… reusing,” “engineers dreaming,” and “artists…writing” (JetñilKijiner 1.75-76). This return to a softer, more melodic cadence offers reassurance—not only to her daughter but to all younger generations. Instead of

passing down the burden of climate change, JetñilKijiner reclaims the responsibility, allowing her daughter to “sleep in peace” (Jetñil-Kijiner 1.3). By addressing the poem to a child rather than a policymaker, she subverts the typical climate activism approach, demonstrating that actual change must begin with those currently in power rather than being deferred to the next generation.

George Saunders’ short story “Jon” similarly critiques the dissociative relationship between humans and nature, employing satire to highlight modern society’s obsession with consumerism and corporate interests.

their thoughts beyond corporate slogans. Instead of referencing literature or personal experiences, protagonist Randy recalls only advertisements, comparing his relationship with Carolyn to a fictional fast-food couple: “Colonel Sanders and wife at LI 87345…” (Saunders 42). His illiteracy is evident from the story’s opening, marked by fragmented, grammatically flawed sentences. He struggles to comprehend a letter from Carolyn, stating, “[he] was so nervous… after opening it…inside were these weird like marks [he] could not read” (Saunders 45-46). In his dystopian world, where individuals are raised and procreated for the solitary benefit of corporations and stripped of

men say that one day / that lagoon will devour you “

— Kathy Jetñil-Kijiner, “Dear Matafele Peinam”

In Saunders’ dystopian world, American capitalism takes the form of an advertising research facility where workers—raised solely to test and promote products— are often led “blindfolded for [their] own protection” (Saunders 34). Much like today’s corporate workforce, these individuals are promised a future of fulfillment that never materializes. Through slight exaggeration, Saunders underscores the imperativeness of taking action now to prevent a future of irreversible environmental and societal decay. Saunders explores the tension between the natural and the artificial, illustrating how embracing human emotion can counteract the dangers of an overly manufactured world. The facility’s workers, devoid of education and cultural experiences, struggle to articulate

emotional or intellectual capability, Saunders depicts how a fixation on materialistic worth and a separation from nature can create numbness to the outside world.

Despite the artificial world surrounding him, Randy subconsciously clings to authentic experiences. He describes Carolyn’s kiss as one that could “only be described as melting” (Saunders 25), revealing an instinctive longing for something beyond scripted advertisements. When he finally encounters nature, he becomes mesmerized by individual blades of grass, studying them “very slowly,” considering each piece of grass as “its total own blade” (Saunders 55). These moments of unmanufactured emotions contrast with his mechanical upbringing, highlighting how exposure

Photo by Dylan Reher.

to nature can reawaken lost emotions and awareness.

Nevertheless, Randy remains largely oblivious to the systemic manipulation exerted over him. He expresses excitement over impending fatherhood because he “would not even lose [his] job” (Saunders 26), unaware of the limitations imposed on his life. When he sees Carolyn after she has left the facility, he notes that “someone had put a light inside her and switched it on” (Saunders 57). This simple yet profound observation demonstrates how reconnecting with the outside world can restore one’s vitality, further supporting Saunders’ argument that breaking free from artificial constraints is necessary for a meaningful existence.

By the story’s end, Randy takes a small but significant step toward reclaiming his autonomy, stating that he is “ready to try” (Saunders 61). Randy’s willingness to leave the comfort and familiarity of the facility in search of requited love is utterly natural. Much like JetñilKijiner’s message in “Dear Matafele Peinem,” Saunders’ “Jon” leaves the reader with hope despite conquering heavy, often discouraging concepts of climate change

and the need to alter humanity’s established and distant relationship with nature.

Saunders’ “Jon” and Jetñil-Kijiner’s “Dear Matafele Peinem” ultimately reveal the harmful ramifications of dissociating from nature, whether fueled by external influences of power, an avoidance of responsibility, or a constructed world where literally and metaphorically one is separated from nature. Jetñil-Kijiner’s poem calls for immediate action to protect cultural and environmental heritage, while Saunders’ story satirizes a world where unchecked consumerism leads to emotional and intellectual decay. Together, these works warn against the consequences of separation from the natural world and emphasize the urgent need for reconnection before the damage becomes irreversible.

Works Cited

“Christiana Figueres - Ecological Hope, and Spiritual Evolution.” The On Being Project, 9 Nov. 2023, onbeing.org/ programs/christiana-figueres-ecological-hope-and-spiritual-evolution/.

Heike Huntebrinker, et al. “United Nations Climate Summit Opening Ceremony – a Poem to My Daughter.” Kijiner, 13 Feb. 2019, www.kathyjetnilkijiner.com/united-nations-climate-summit-opening-ceremony-my-poem-to-my-daughter/.

Saunders, George. “Jon.” The New Yorker, 20 Jan. 2003, www.newyorker.com/magazine/2003/01/27/jon.

Photo by Dylan Reher.

ESCAPE TO NATURE

STORY AND PHOTOS BY LILY NANNINI ‘26

Someone once told me, “Everyone has to live in a city at least once in their life, and it’s better to do it when you’re young.” I’ve never been a city person and can’t go too long without reconnecting with nature. While I enjoyed visiting so many big cities every weekend, I will forever be captivated by the charm of small towns. I love Vienna and the places I’ve traveled during my time in Europe, and I can’t imagine having studied anywhere else—but I missed nature. I missed waking up early for coffee and sunrise hikes in the mountains. I missed having the beach five minutes away, running around the backyard with my dog, watching

GARMISCHPARTENKIRCHEN, GERMANY

Innsbruck, the capital of Austria’s Tirol province, was another weekend trip that felt like an escape into the mountains. I instantly fell in love with how Innsbruck still feels like a small alpine town, unlike most capital cities. The main street by the old town serves as the perfect location to capture a photo of picturesque houses with a pristine alpine mountain backdrop. My friend and I purchased the Innsbruck card, which granted us access to 22 museums and attractions, including the Swarovski Kristallwelten, as well as free use of public transit—an experience that endures as one of my core memories from my time abroad.

The natural beauty and towering mountains of Garmisch-Partenkirchen, a quaint mountain town in Germany’s southeastern state of Bavaria, haven’t left my mind since I visited in March 2023. I traveled by train from Vienna to Munich and then to GarmischPartenkirchen for a short weekend trip with my friend Anna. Unfortunately, limited public transit options hindered our chance to visit Zugspitze or Eibsee, two of the area’s most famous attractions. However, simply wandering alongside rivers, past charming houses with wooden balconies and ornate details left us with an overwhelming sense of fulfillment. Watching families return from the slopes, skis slung over their shoulders, made my heart feel so full. Seeing big dogs—Golden Retrievers and Bernese Mountain Dogs instead of the small ones I always saw in the city— brought a simple kind of joy.

We strolled down Ludwigstraße, where houses beaming with color framed the snow-capped mountains. We sat and ate cake and pretzels at Olympiahaus by the Olympic ski jump—one of my favorite memories, not just for the beauty of the moment but for the small victory of ordering auf Deutsch for both myself and my friend. The friendliness of everyone we encountered, from restaurant servers to shop workers, only enriched the experience.

I’d never felt such heavy sadness leaving a place as I did watching the station in Garmisch-Partenkirchen disappear through the train window. I’m not usually the type to repeat trips—I want to see as much of the world as possible—but I would love to return to Germany someday to immerse myself deeper in its nature and culture.

INNSBRUCK, AUSTRIA

Hallstatt, a fairytale village perched on the edge of a lake, was another highlight. I visited with my mom when she came to Vienna, opting for a Get Your Guide tour so we didn’t have to worry about trains or planning our own itinerary. I learned that Hallstatt inspired Disney’s Frozen, which made perfect sense—the village, situated on a lake, is awe-inspiring, every angle like a postcard. Because we visited in mid-April, we avoided the peakseason crowds and even managed to snap photos at the famous scenic overlook without waiting in line.

I loved Hallstatt so much that I returned on my final weekend abroad, this time by train. I could easily spend hours strolling through the tiny streets, watching the water glisten in the lake, and taking in the view from the Skywalk, perched high above the village (well worth the trek up by foot or the ticket to ride the funicular). It was the perfect ending to my time in Austria.

SORRENTO, ITALY HALLSTATT, AUSTRIA

Last, but not least, was Italy. I spent part of my spring break in Sorrento and took a day trip to Positano, an idyllic cliffside village on the Amalfi Coast. The roundtrip bus ticket cost only $5, and I couldn’t believe how breathtaking the Mediterranean looked in real life. Positano was so lovely, and seeing the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean Sea felt like a dream. We spent the day wandering hidden paths, winding cobbled streets between pastelcolored houses, and watching Vespas zip by. We ate pasta, gelato, limoncello—everything.

Our hotel in Sorrento, the Art Hotel Gran Paradiso, was the perfect retreat. Even better, our room had a balcony overlooking the pool and the Gulf of Naples. Although we only had two days there, I would love to return someday and see the Amalfi Coast from the water.

LISBON,

PORTUGAL

Moving from mountains to water, my first trip outside Vienna was to Lisbon, Portugal. I went with a friend from my German class, and we met up with a friend from Washington & Lee who was studying there. Lisbon was a vibrant, sun-soaked city with easy access to the ocean. Every night, we had sunset picnics with bread, salami, cheese, and snacks on a hilltop near our Airbnb.

But my favorite part of the trip was our spontaneous day visit to Cascais. With no plan and no idea what to expect, we took the train an hour outside of Lisbon and spent the afternoon walking along the coastline. When we reached Boca Inferno, we stopped and sat for gelato, watching the waves crash against the cliffs. I was so happy to be by the water, as I hadn’t seen the ocean since January.

This trip was especially meaningful to me because my home is on the Atlantic. When we stand on the ocean side of Cape Cod, looking out at the horizon, people always say we’re gazing directly toward Portugal. This time, I was looking home from the other side.

TheandPeople the Sea

POEM AND PHOTOS BY RHONICA A. CONNOR

Submerged in the ocean, feet planted, body feeling the motions. A feeling of peace washes over me there’s a colossal connection when you’re an Anguillian in the sea.

From dust we came, to the sea we went.

A haven of love, healing, culture. Countless times by the beach were spent.

Here in Anguilla, the sea is more than just sea and the sand, more than sand. The beach is a multifaceted space a way our people reclaimed the colonizers’ land.

Early in the 20th century, our Anguillian men would go out for months at a time, traveling on the blue for days until they made it to Santo Domingo’s bays.

Then, a couple of months later, they’d race back.

Peeping to the left, peeping to the right, watching which com-

peting sailboats were in sight.

“Hard-lee, hard-lee!” captains would yell, warning an almost-colliding boat to swerve like hell.

As the handcrafted vessels made their way to shore, families gathered, cheering on the beach for a race they all adored.

That adoration took many forms, depending on who won and who lost. “Man dem cheat us!”

“Nossuh, dem win fair and square!”

And like a broken record, this debate could go on and on, even continuing through the racing season next year. The sea became a place of unity for us. Even after the men stopped sailing for work, boat racing has become a cherished art— a part of every Anguillian’s heart.

This is where our love for the sea began, and it continued.

Our island is tranquility wrapped in blue. The sea also gives us healing.

COVID is a myth when the sea cures all.

Whether you’re two or two hundred, the oldies say the ocean can cure mental issues, the cold, or the flu. “Just gotta give her a lil duck,” my parents would say when I blew my nose.

‘Ducking’—an aggressive head push underwater— a dreaded experience every Anguillian knows. But somehow, that duck would heal you.

Because, as I said, the sea is the cure.

Tourists come yearly to relax and rest.

As do we, but for more than just that. No beach is discriminated from the east to the west.

The sea brings us together like particles of sand— the peace, the history, the healing, the unity,

’Tis the pride and joy of we land.

Deepening My Connection to Nature through Art

In the spring of 2024, I took a four-week Drawing from the Environment course. Held at Nature Camp in Vesuvius, Virginia, the course emphasized place based, immersive learning. We explored the camp’s ecology, natural history, and geology, deepening my connection to nature. This concept—one’s social and psychological relationship with the natural world—was central to our daily practice, reinforcing proven pathways to a stronger environmental bond.

Each student was assigned a specific “place” to visit daily, practicing the art of noticing. The broader concept of place encompasses the personal significance and belonging we associate with locations. Human perception and experience deliver meaning to a place: returning to the same spot each day at Nature Camp fostered a deep connection with the space. Every morning, we engaged in intentional observation, noting changes from the previous day and documenting our experiences through sketches or journal entries.

I observed the early May leaves transition from a fresh spring green to a deeper, more opaque shade of maturity. I felt the subtle shift in the atmosphere after a night of rain. With my professor’s guidance, I learned to recognize new voices in the air as migrating birds arrived from the south.

“Sensing” is a key pathway to connecting with nature. It involves actively engaging with the environment through the senses and noticing the surrounding world. The unrushed mornings I spent at Nature Camp, sitting against a tree in my designated place and quietly observing, drew me closer to nature. How often do we simply sit and watch? A study by The Nature of Americans revealed that over 60% of adults spend five or fewer hours outdoors per week. Many feel increasingly disconnected from nature. Thousands of tiny worlds exist all around us—do we notice?

This daily practice of observation transformed my relationship with my environment. It gave

me a profound sense of belonging. One project required me to paint 12 wildflowers found within Nature Camp. I discovered delicate species I had never noticed before, and afterward, I could recognize each one with ease, making me feel genuinely connected to this corner of nature in Vesuvius.

Another project involved mapping Big Mary’s Creek, the stream that flows through Nature Camp. At first glance, it resembles many other streams I have seen in Virginia. However, discovering the vast array of creatures living in its waters amazed me. I had no idea so many intricate, beautiful fish and critters thrived in rural Virginia—a place with which I am so familiar.

Finding beauty in the natural world—through art, music, or writing—is another powerful way to connect with nature. The awe I felt upon discovering the vibrant life within Big Mary’s Creek deepened as I replicated its inhabitants in my artwork.

For my final project, I captured my revelation regarding the depth, beauty, and complexity of an environment I once took for granted through a painting of a section of the stream. At first glance, the painting depicts the stream as seen from above. However, it opens from the middle like a book, revealing the hidden world beneath the surface.

Vibrant fish of various species fill the frame, offering a glimpse into the rich, unseen, and often unnoticed life that thrives in Virginia’s streams.

Nature connectedness benefits both environmental appreciation and personal well-being. My time at Nature Camp taught me the immense value of slowing down and truly noticing the world around me. I encourage you to try it—you may discover the same sense of wonder and connection I did.

Story and illustrations by Annie Whitman. Layout by Kate Keeley.

Lithium Extractivism in the Atacama & A Just Green Energy Transition

By: Charlie Wohlgemuth

This summer, I traveled to Chile on a grant from the Washington & Lee University History Department to conduct archival and field research for my thesis on the history of the Chilean lithium boom. Lithium mining emerged as a significant industry in Chile during the early 1990s and has expanded rapidly during the 21st century. As pressures to decarbonize the world economy intensify due to the escalating climate crisis, demand for lithium—a key component in electric battery technology—has surged.

The rapid growth of the electric vehicle (EV) industry and other battery technologies has driven lithium mining expansion in the Atacama Desert, a region within the high Andean Wetlands of Northern Chile. In 2022, Chile accounted for 34% of global lithium production, with nearly all of it extracted from the Atacama salt flats through a process called brining.

Lithium brining is highly water-intensive. Research by Chilean environmental scientist Ingrid Garcés (2023) found that producing one ton of lithium results in the evaporation of two million liters of water—an irrecoverable resource The Atacama desert, the driest non-polar region on Earth, receives less than one millimeter of precipitation annually. Despite its arid conditions, the Atacama is home to beautiful creatures found nowhere else on Earth.

During my time in San Pedro de Atacama, I spotted flamingos, viscachas, and vicuñas, all of which depend on the health of the salt flats and lagoons. The scientific community warns that lithium brining could inflict permanent damage on these fragile ecosystems.

On my first day in San Pedro de Atacama, I biked 15 miles along a dirt path to Laguna Cejar, a government-protected salt lagoon under Indigenous stewardship. The water’s extreme salinity limits swimming time to ten minutes due to health risks.

The next day, I joined a tour group to explore salt flats at extreme elevations (13,00015,000 feet) near the Licancabur volcano. Unlike Laguna Cejar, several salt flats are slated for lithium extraction under Chile’s 2023 National Lithium Strategy (ENL), which grants concessions for new mining projects from 2025 to 2060.

In 2023, Chilean President Gabriel Boric signed the National Lithium Strategy (ENL), responding to the continuously growing global demand. The agreement involves the participation of the Chilean state agency for economic development (CORFO), along with Chilean and foreign private mining corporations, in water-intensive lithium brining projects across the Atacama Desert and beyond. The media collective Observatorio Plurinacional de Salares Andinos (OPSAL) has reported that, as part of this agreement, the Chilean government has received expressions of interest for lithium exploration and exploitation projects in 26 new Andean salt flats and wetlands in Chilean territory

The Indigenous Atacameño peoples have lived in this area for thousands of years and are deeply connected to the local ecosystem. They have been outspoken in their resistance to the ENL due to the ecological degradation caused by lithium extraction. In Calama, Chile, a few days before arriving in San Pedro de Atacama, I attended a Lickanantay (Atacameño) protest against these developments to learn more about their demands.

At the march, I heard slogans like “los salares no son minas, son humedales” (the salt flats aren’t mines, they are wetlands) and “El pueblo donde está? El pueblo está en la calle pidiendo dignidad” (Where are the people? The people are on the street demanding their dignity). Protesters ended the march at the CODELCO headquarters in Calama (the state copper company and a party to the ENL). They planted a dried-out gray flamingo on the ground, its sash bearing the rainbow design of the plurinational flag—a stark symbol of the dire environmental consequences of lithium extraction.

During the protest, I interviewed a Lickanantay leader, Sonia Ramos Chocobar, about the ENL, ecological damage, corruption in the lithium industry, and Indig-

Image Left: Rock formation in the Atacama Desert.

enous resistance. She emphasized that the sector brings little benefit to the region while enriching the son-in-law and grandchildren of former Chilean military dictator Augusto Pinochet. SQM, the Chilean private corporation with a 49.99% stake in a mining partnership with CODELCO under the ENL, has Pinochet’s grandchildren on its board and is de-facto run by his billionaire former son-in-law, Julio Ponce Lerou.

Chocobar lamented the ecological catastrophe that further lithium mining would bring to ancestral Lickanantay territory. In one of the driest places on Earth, SQM’s lithium brining uses approximately 2,000 liters per second of brine (salted water), more than 170 million liters per day

“It is against the interests of those who care about addressing climate breakdown to ignore communities struggling under the negative externalities of ‘green extractivism’ in the name of fighting climate change.”

These grievances must be taken seriously by global climate and environmental justice movements. Much of the prevailing discourse on the global transition towards a green energy economy insists that the world faces an inescapable double bind.

This perspective tacitly justifies the existence of “sacrifice zones” in green transition supply chains by positing that there is no alternative to the rapid acceleration of raw material extractivism to achieve a green transition, lest we condemn humanity to the worst ravages of climate disaster. Environmental movements focused on climate justice must wholeheartedly reject the logic of this double bind.

It is against the interests of those who care about addressing climate breakdown to ignore communities struggling under the negative externalities of ‘green extractivism’ in the name of fighting climate change. Climate movements that make this conscious sacrifice of communities on the frontlines of extractivist barbarism will be delegitimized globally. Communities on the frontiers of the green energy economy will see this for what it is: faux environmentalism.

If environmentalists in the developed world choose to address climate breakdown while ignoring the ecological costs of extractivism, they are effectively advancing a ‘solution’ that contradicts the very idea of global environmental justice.

Demanding a just green energy transition without “sacrifice zones” is the mission of the Lickanantay protesters and Chilean environmental organizations I encountered in Calama, such as Fundación Tanti and OPSAL. The broader regional manifestation of such demands has

taken shape under the rainbow flag of plurinationalism.

This indigenous-led movement has been gaining political force across the Andean regions of Bolivia, Chile, and Argentina in recent decades. One of its fundamental ideas is to transcend symbolic state recognition for indigenous nations towards developing a form of sovereignty rooted in control of the land and its resources.

Plurinationalism is one of many movements advocating for environmental protection from extractivist industries in Latin America. Other initiatives draw from indigenous philosophies, such as the Quechua concept of Sumak Kawsay, known in Spanish as Buen Vivir.

This philosophy supposes an ontological paradigm shift from viewing nature as an external object towards a way of being that views nature as a composition of living subjects with legal rights. It posits reciprocity with the natural world and firmly rejects extractivist development models. Though Buen Vivir was enshrined in the Ecuadorian (2008) and Bolivian (2009) constitutions, these state projects have been criticized for perpetuating “neo-extractivism”—state-controlled resource extraction used to finance social programs.

The persistence of both neoliberal and state-controlled extractivism have fueled anti-extractivist social movements across Latin America. Not incidentally, Latin America is also the most dangerous region in the world for environmental activists, with 166 killings of environmental defenders recorded in 2023. Those defending ecosystems against resource exploitation often directly oppose powerful economic interests profiting from raw material demand.

So, for those of us involved in environmentalism in the developed world, what are alternative routes that can address both the rapid decarbonization of the global economy necessary to prevent climate disaster and the crises caused by ‘green extractivism’?

Today, the climate change driven imperative to reduce global carbon emissions is driving an accelerating and ecologically catastrophic demand for raw materials.

While advancements in battery chemistry, energy, and recycling may help curb some future demand, the current lithium-nickel-cobalt-manganese oxide (NCM) battery scenario projects staggering increases: lithium demand is expected to rise 18–20 times, cobalt 17–19 times, nickel 28–31 times, and other key minerals 15–20 times from 2020 to 2050.

While the U.S. and EU have recently attempted to onshore some critical mineral extraction due to competition with China, the large majority of global supply still comes from economic peripheries in the Global South.

Cobalt from the Congo, lithium from the high Andean wetlands, copper from Chile, and nickel from Indonesia have provided the bulk of the inputs for the nascent green energy economies in the US, The EU, and China—often at the cost of labor exploitation and ecological devastation.

Countries lacking industrial policies for value-added industries in green supply chains have also remained trapped in extractive economic models, reinforcing regional and national underdevelopment.

The International Energy Agency forecasts a 4200% increase in lithium demand by 2040. It is inevitable that the ecological consequences of meeting raw material demand on this scale would be catastrophic. Thus, to imagine a just green energy transition requires us to go beyond the decarbonization of the global economy as it currently exists. 21st century environmentalism must expand upon narrow critiques of the fossil fuel industry to challenge the totality of unsustainable patterns of production and consumption in the world economy, the consumerist ontology of neoliberal culture, and therefore substanceless economic growth as an end in itself.

The concept of scaling back the insatiable appetite of our collective energy and material consumption in socially unnecessary and ecologically destructive sectors of the economy needs more space in environmental justice discourse.

A just transition to green energy would require a shrinking of what Jason Hickel, an ecological economist from the Autonomous University of Barcelona, describes as the

Image Left: An active nickel mining operation in Sulawesi, Indonesia

“excess energy and material consumption in high-income nations.” These are unsustainable patterns that are “facilitated by appropriation from the rest of the world” and are “causing ecological breakdown on a global scale.”

Even though there has been some decoupling of GDP growth and carbon emissions in many high-income countries, these emissions reductions fall far short of what is necessary for rapid decarbonization in the timeframe set by the Paris Agreements.

At the current pace, these countries would take an average of over 220 years to reduce their emissions by 95%, a timeline far beyond what climate science demands. Meanwhile, absolute decoupling of material use has not occurred, meaning global resource extraction continues to grow alongside GDP. These trends are making decarbonization more difficult to achieve and more dependent on extractivism.

It is the qualitative content of GDP that is of principal concern here. Empirical research shows that higher GDP per capita is not directly correlated to higher living standards.

As food for thought, studies suggest that providing decent living conditions for 8.5 billion people could be possible with just 30% of today’s global resource and energy use.

Environmentalism must struggle to redirect finance and productive capacity toward a just transition to green energy that is severed from the sole pursuit of GDP growth. While proposals for a Green New Deal have gained traction, any viable version must be formulated with a vision of growth based on qualitative criteria.

In the US, modernizing and expanding public transportation is essential. Reducing car and plane dependency is crucial to reducing global

Images Left: Displays of a Lickanatay-led protest

carbon emissions. While electric vehicles (EVs) will play a role, attempting to replace the entire global fleet of nearly 2 billion vehicles with EVs would require extracting millions of tons of lithium, cobalt, copper, and nickel—an unacceptable ecological catastrophe in itself. Investing in advanced public transit systems would make mobility more accessible while expediting the transition to green energy.

Facilitating a just green energy transition fast enough to avoid climate disaster also means that reducing non-essential production in resource-intensive industries—such as private jets, SUVs, cruise ships, advertising, and fast fashion—must be prioritized.

A post-growth Green New Deal could use tools like credit guidance, local legislation, and targeted taxation to curb such socially unnecessary production while redirecting resources towards meeting ecological and human development objectives.

Finally, environmentalists must address the military-industrial complex. The U.S. military is the world’s single largest institutional polluter, consuming vast amounts of fossil fuels and critical minerals while diverting economic resources away from socially necessary production.

Militarism is a root cause of not only humanitarian, but also ecological crises. Any serious environmental platform must include efforts to scale down military spending and redirect productive capacity toward social necessities.

In 2023, the UN Environment Program concluded that there was “no credible pathway” to limiting warming to 1.5°C this century. The IPCC warns that net-zero emissions must be achieved by 2050 to stay below 2°C, yet current trajectories, according to Climate Action Tracker, point to nearly 2.7°C by 2100. Time is running out fast.

The global economy indisputably must rapidly decarbonize to avoid irreversible anthropogenic climate disaster. However, decarbonization dependent on unchecked extractivism has no leg to stand on, because it requires accelerating global ecological breakdown in the name of reducing carbon emissions.

Its proposed solution perpetuates colonial dynamics in the world economy, where the costs of the green transition are externalized and borne by communities and ecosystems in the peripheral frontiers of extraction.

A just green transition must account for the costs borne by “sacrifice zones” in green energy supply chains, which requires addressing the unsustainable and socially unnecessary patterns of production and consumption fueling these crises in rich countries. These are preconditions to solving the climate crisis and bringing the global economy back into balance with the living world. 21st century environmentalism must grasp this reality—and build a platform that doesn’t sacrifice ecosystems and communities on the altar of decarbonization.

“The concept of scaling back the insatiable appetite of our collective energy and material consumption in socially unnecessary and destructive sectors of the economy desperately needs more space in environmental justice discourse.”

Image Above: Brining operations in the Salar de Atacama, Chile

Images Above: Shabara Artisanal Cobalt Mine and Chuquicamata Copper Mine

COP29 in Baku:

A New Deal On Climate Finance

by Charlie Wohlgemuth

The 2024 UN Climate Summit (COP29) took place in Baku, Azerbaijan, from November 11 to 22. The event was shrouded in controversy for multiple reasons, culminating in a deal criticized as “an insult” and “a joke” by the delegations of developing nations.

Even before the climate talks began, the summit faced boycotts by numerous groups, including prominent climate activists like Greta Thunberg and delegations from Armenia. These boycotts cited the 2023 Azerbaijani-led ethnic cleansing of Armenians in NagornoKarabakh, broader human rights abuse allegations, as well as the inherent contradiction of a climate change summit hosted by the Azerbaijani “petrostate.”

Beyond these controversies, the climate negotiations themselves have been widely criticized by nations of the Global South and climate activists worldwide. Climate finance was the central issue in Baku. Some background information is essential to contextualize the recent developments in global climate finance diplomacy and their implications for addressing the increasingly destructive impacts of anthropogenic climate change.

At COP15 in Copenhagen (2009), 23 developed countries pledged to collectively contribute $100 billion per year in climate finance to help the developing world mitigate and adapt to climate change. This funding was intended to support the construction of clean energy infrastructure, ameliorate climate-induced damages, and address crises caused by climate breakdown.1

However, since 2009, most developed nations have failed to meet their financial commitments. In 2021, the World Resources Institute published a study utilizing the proportional responsibilities of developed countries as measured by percentage of Gross National Income (GNI) in which they concluded that in 2018 “only seven of 23 countries provided their fair share of climate finance” while “the United States provided less than 20% of its fair share.”2 These

1 “Climate Finance and the USD 100 billion goal,” OECD, 2024.

2 Julie Bos, Lorena Gonzalez and Joe

shortfalls have persisted, leading many developing nations at COP29 to demand the payment of what they describe as “climate debts” owed by the Global North.

Carbon emissions reductions have also fallen far short of necessity. The Paris Agreement, signed at COP21 in 2015, instituted a framework for climate action aiming to reach net-zero global carbon emissions by 2050. According to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), these landmark agreements were constructed to “hold global temperature increase to well below 2°C above preindustrial levels and pursue efforts to limit it to 1.5°C” before the end of the century.3 Developed countries were expected to reach net-zero emissions by 2030 due to their disproportionate historical emissions, allowing formerly colonized Thwaites, “Are Countries Providing Enough to the $100 Billion Climate Finance Goal?” World Resources Institute, October 7, 2021.

3 ”The Paris Agreement,” United Nations, 2015.

and underdeveloped regions space to sufficiently industrialize while still meeting basic human development goals.

Under the Paris framework, each signatory state must submit a Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) detailing its emissions reduction strategies every five years. While these reports are meant to hold countries accountable, NDCs are functionally nonbinding. As a result, collective emissions reduction targets have not been met.

By 2023, the UN Environmental Program’s Emissions Gap Report had concluded that there was “no credible pathway” to 1.5°C.4 According to the World Economic Forum, global CO₂ emissions stood at 40 gigatons (billion metric tons) that year. The carbon budget for having a 50-50 chance of limiting global warming to 1.5°C by 2100 reached 200 gigatons at the start of 2024.5 Simple math suggests that if emissions remain at current levels, we will surpass this budget in just four years. Decarbonizing the world economy is not achievable on this timescale.

Despite significant increases in alternative energy capacity, the failure to reduce carbon emissions in alignment with Paris Agreement goals leaves current projections sitting at about 2.7 degrees Celsius of warming by 2100, according to Climate Action Tracker. At COP 30 in Brazil (2025), countries must submit new NDCs, though past failures cast doubt on their effectiveness.

The projected 2.7°C of warming represents a profound institutional failure. Each

4 UNEP, “Emissions Gap Report 2023." United Nations Environment Programme, 2023.

5 “Carbon budget for 1.5°C will run out in six years at current emissions levels – new research,” World Economic Forum, 2023.

degree of warming above pre-industrial levels intensifies ongoing biodiversity loss.6 Crop yields also decrease at an average of 3–7% per degree of warming, increasing both the rate of ecosystem destruction to create space for agricultural land and the likelihood of global food shortages.7 Rising temperatures also increase the likelihood of surpassing irreversible ecological tipping points like the melting of the West Antarctic ice sheet, which would cause rapid sea level rise and subsequent humanitarian and political crises.

A 3°C warming scenario would result in catastrophic sea level rise, biodiversity collapse, drought, mass displacement, and staple crop failures. The UN has warned of a potential “multi-breadbasket failure,” in which key agricultural regions collapse simultaneously due to climate impacts, triggering severe global food insecurity.

Climate breakdown disproportionately affects developing nations in the Global South, which bear the vast majority of climate-related deaths. These nations are far below their equitable share of the 1.5°C emissions budget. In other words, regions like Africa have contributed almost nothing to the crisis but suffer its most severe consequences.

6 Habibullah, Muzafar Shah, Badariah Haji Din, Siow-Hooi Tan, and Hasan Zahid. “Impact of Climate Change on Biodiversity Loss: Global Evidence.” Environmental Science and Pollution Research International, 2022, 1073.

7 Adam Aton, “For Crop Harvests, Every Degree of Warming Counts,” Scientific American, August 16, 2017.

Making matters worse, many developing nations lack the financial capacity to invest in climate resilience due to crushing debt payments to private lenders, wealthy developed countries, and international financial institutions like the IMF and World Bank. At COP29 in Baku, calls for an equitable climate finance deal sought to address these historical injustices, but the

final agreement fell far short.

While many activists at COP29 argued that no deal was better than a bad deal, a new agreement was ultimately reached. The deal requests $300 billion in collective contributions from developed nations by 2035 but provides little specificity on when or how these payments will be made. Critics argue that the financing will likely come in the form of market-rate loans rather than grants, further entrenching debt crises rather than addressing them.

Concerns have also been raised over what constitutes “climate finance” and the legitimacy of private investment as a climate solution. Some countries have created selfsuiting definitions of climate finance. For example, Japan counts “more efficient coal power plants” as climate finance.8 The plan to leverage large private investment through small public expenditure means relying on market forces to invest in climate mitigation infrastructure, and these aren’t always profitable ventures.

Okakah, a Kenyan ecological activist and community organizer with the Kayole Community Justice Centre, expressed frustration at COP29, telling journalists:

“The COP process has become a deadly joke for Africa. Promises made by the Global North have consistently fallen flat. This $300 billion is not climate finance; it is climate debt. Loans offered under the guise of help are shackles that deepen economic exploitation.”9

8 Julie Bos, Lorena Gonzalez and Joe Thwaites, “Are Countries Providing Enough to the $100 Billion Climate Finance Goal?” World Resources Institute, October 7, 2021.

9 Abdul Rahman, “Climate finance is central to COP29 negotiations in Baku, Azerbaijan” The People’s Dispatch, November 13, 2024.

Additionally, the plan to leverage large private investment through small public expenditure means relying on market forces to invest in climate mitigation infrastructure, and these aren’t always profitable ventures.

Activists like Okakah have also condemned the overreliance on carbon credits and negative emissions schemes, which corporations have used to justify continued pollution while extracting resources and displacing communities in the Global South. While negative emissions technologies will play a role in achieving net-zero emissions, many experts argue that current climate models overestimate their scalability and feasibility.10

While the severity of what we collectively face is daunting, this is not about fear mongering. A sober analysis of the climate

10 Kelsey Perlman, “BECCS: No time for false saviours,” One Earth, November 4, 2024.

crisis in its full gravity is necessary for establishing a strategy capable of realizing the changes that must be made to save the biosphere.

It is not alarmist to assert that the COP 29 agreement amounts to an abdication of global responsibility by developed nations. Activists across the Global South have aptly lambasted it as an insult and a joke.

Human society and the natural world face an existential threat from anthropogenic climate breakdown. To prevent further ecological unraveling and mass suffering, we need an international movement built on solidarity—one that demands an equitable climate finance deal and concrete steps toward fulfilling the NDC next year at COP 30 in Brazil. A just energy transition is imperative. The stakes could not be higher— our institutions must deliver real action, not more empty promises.

love letter to the outing club

What’s it like being a recent alumni back in Lexington? Well, that’s a loaded question. The best place to start would probably be the Outing Club. The most powerful places I have found community in my brief time in the “real world” have been in outdoor places, spaces, experiences. My introduction to this approach to making friends and finding community certainly was founded on my experience working at the Outing Club my senior year.

Last December, I hiked into the Rees Dart Valley in New Zealand with two former App Adventure Leaders and fellow lovers of the Outing Club for a week. By the serendipity of the Outing Club com- munity, we had all ended up in the South Island of New Zealand for the year, excited to explore the mountains and rivers far from the Appalachians and the Maury. What gave us the confidence to do this? Probably the classic Outing Club recipe of James Dick’s leadership, the accessibility of outdoor adventure in Lexington, and the cool people we met through the Outing Club that motivated us to explore, be involved, and just do more. Though we were all a few years apart, our common bond exists through the OC community and experiences that so positively informed our college experience. Not knowing at the time that I would be back in Lexington for a semester working for the Outing Club, this experience certainly solidified the way the Outing Club community can quite fortuitously stick with you beyond graduation.

Fast forward a few months to June, I stood in the Dulles airport at 8am along with a disheveled group of recently graduated W&L seniors, a few underclassmen, and a handful of recent alumni. As we stood waiting to check-in for a flight to Adis Abada, I couldn’t help but feel spoiled to know the Outing Club created this eclectic group of W&L-affiliated people and brought us together to hike Mount Kiliman jaro, with a 100% success rate, by the way. Sure the group’s sense of connection and conversations were linked to our experience as W&L students or alumni, but the depth of our bond was a product of piecing together riddles we had told on App Adventure, a comfortability with discussing our bowel movements publicly, and recounting stories of previous Outing Club trips or moments shared with James. Not to mention, we all seemed to share a general sense of positivity and humor when things did not go as planned, including but not limited to: altitude sickness, harsh bathroom conditions, a case of e. coli, a herd of buffalo nearly knocking over our tents as we slept, etc. All to say, the Outing Club community is not exclusive to the parameters of Lexington or Rockbridge community. It connects all ages, different experience-level and skill sets in the outdoors, staff and faculty, family members and significant others of members. The Outing Club motto, “college goes fast, get outside” prevails in that life goes fast, so we’re all just trying to get outside.

Fast forward again, here I am back in Lexington as the Outing Club “Specialist,” as I have so honorably been deemed. What could have been a daunting prospect, living and working in Lexington a year after graduation, was made an altogether new and inventive experience by the Outing Club and its community. Fortunate to have one of my best friends from undergrad, Emmie McElroy (Outing Club “fellow”) as my coworker, roommate, and accomplice, Lexington and its endless outdoor opportuni ties becomes a more special place to me each day that I am here. The students I have gotten to know and spend time with by sunset hiking, polar plunging, trail running, pancake flipping, book discussing, movie watching, you name it…they’ll do it! Their curiosity is contagious, their humor unbeatable, and their willingness to just do it is inspiring.

So, to the Outing Club, to the students that keep the inclusive energy and curiosity in trying new things alive, to House Mountain and all of the other trails in the area, to James Dick, Katelyn Nicely, Ben Schlieff, and Emmie McElroy who work hard to “stoke the fire” of outdoor recreation on campus, to all the community members that come and climb at the Pavilion or volunteer at the Chessie mar athon or Nasty 9, to the Maury and back campus beach with its refreshingly cold and often muddy water, to the proximity of the back campus trails, to Rolf and Ken who work behind the scenes with the Outing Club, to anyone and everyone that has ever done an Outing Club trip, I say thanks. And to any student, staff, or alumni still considering joining the Outing Club, I encourage you to spend the best $40 you’ll ever spend and sign up.

BENEATH THE SURFACE

Uncovering the Geologic Stories of the American West

Iuteri

During my first Spring Term as a W&L student in 2024, I had the opportunity to travel to Yellowstone for an Earth Lab course. There, I studied the geology of the United States’ volcanoes with Professor Barber and ten other talented and diverse students.

Our study of volcanoes began with eight days of classroom instruction. During these sessions, we explored the foundations of geologic analysis— including plate tectonics, magma formation, eruptive processes, volcanic monitoring, hazard management, and the geologic history of the American West. These sessions also helped us build connections by working in teams on labs and case studies before departing for our field study.

On Sunday, May 12th, our class began the day at 3:30 a.m. and headed from Roanoke to Bozeman, Montana. As someone who had not spent much time out West, I was awestruck by how true the saying “big sky” proved to be. In addition to our academic pursuits, Luke Newton, Dominic Vogelbacher, and I started a run club, using our nightly runs to explore the local towns, observe the population and culture, and inadvertently train at altitude–sparking plenty of VO2 max discussions. We spent three days in West Yellowstone, Montana. Our first day exploring Yellowstone was breathtaking and intellectually stimulating, leaving me

Grand Geyser.

Photo by Sofia Iuteri.

Story and photos by Sofia

Layout by Kate Keeley

with lingering questions about Yellowstone’s caldera and its hydrothermal features’ inner workings.

At 9:41 a.m., our first stop was the Hebgen Lake Fault Scarp. The landscape told a harrowing story, with visible reverse and normal faults caused by brittle deformation. The 1959 Hebgen Lake earthquake, which has a volcanic explosivity index (VEI) of 7.5, triggered a landslide so massive that it traversed the canyon and reached 130 meters above the river level. Approximately 20 campers were buried beneath 80 million tons of debris. Today, many people continue to live in this seismically active region despite the risk of future disasters.

My favorite stop that day was the Grand Prismatic Spring and Midway Geyser Basin. While the vibrant colors and walking alongside the largest hot spring in the United States were mesmerizing, understanding the chemical processes behind these features was even more rewarding. I learned that temperature variations dictate color differences, with the boiling blue center surrounded by bands of cooler water hosting different bacteria. Archaea and hyperthermophilic bacteria thrive near the vent, while photosynthetic thermophilic bacteria (cyanobacteria) in the cooler rims create striking orange, green, and yellow hues.

Later that day, we stopped at Old Faithful and the Upper Geyser Basin. While Old Faithful was impressive, the Grand Geyser eruption captivated me the most. After a long wait, we witnessed a turbulent flow

Grand Prismatic.

Photo by Sofia Iuteri.

transform into a powerful 180-foot jet of spinning water that continued for minutes. Surrounding the geyser were ghostly white trees, stripped of life by silicon deposits from past eruptions, starkly contrasting with their healthy counterparts.

Day one clarified many geological concepts–fault formations, evidence of lava flows, and the science behind hydrothermal colors. However, I was left with new questions: How do underground processes differ to create unique hydrothermal features? Does Yellowstone’s wellmaintained infrastructure create a false sense of security for visitors, masking the real hazards of this dynamic landscape? On our third day in Yellowstone, we explored the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone (Artist’s Point), Mud Volcano, Storm Point Trail, Indian Pond, and Yellowstone Lake–all within the Caldera. The day started a bit later than anticipated due to a major bison jam, and longer and more intense hikes meant we diverged from the field guide. However, these stops provided valuable insights into Yellowstone’s environmental interactions and climate impact.

At the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone, we hiked to multiple vistas, capturing the canyon’s dramatic views. The canyon’s towering waterfall, yellow-orange rock formations, and volcanic history showcased the impact of glaciation. The outcrops revealed rhyolites, tuffs, and igneous rock formations, with hydrothermal alteration producing vivid colors through mineral-rich water flow. My partner India and I hypothesized that a divergent boundary may have formed in this area due to a glacial dam burst at the end of the last ice age, which carved the canyon’s distinctive V-shape.

At the Mud Volcano, we studied mud deposits, gas discharge, and hydrothermal alteration. The Sulfur Cauldron, with a staggering pH of 1, stood out, its blue-

Entrance to Midway Geyser Basin.

Photo by Sofia Iuteri.

Grand Canyon of Yellowstone.

Photo by Sofia Iuteri.

green waters surrounded by green chemosynthetic bacteria. I was fascinated by how rain and snow deposition constantly shape and shift the mud pots.

Our final stop, Storm Point Trail and Yellowstone Lake provided evidence of hydrothermal explosion craters. As we hiked to a beach overlook, we observed bubbles escaping from the lake sediments—gas venting from the Yellowstone system beneath us. This stop connected many of our geological observations, highlighting how Yellowstone Lake sits within a massive hydrothermal explosion crater, a feature that mirrors glaciation on a miniature scale. The caldera’s environment remains in constant flux, shaped by ongoing geological activity. On Thursday, May 16th,

Students exiting Ape Cave Trail.

Photo by Sofia Iuteri.

we traveled from Bozeman to Portland, marking a stark transition. The lush forests and eclectic energy of Portland sharply contrasted with the quaint, mountainous terrain of Bozeman. On Friday, May 17th, we explored the Columbia River Basalt Province in Washington, making five stops under clear, sunny skies. At the Columbia Hills Fault Zone and Haystack Butte Flow, we studied the Flood Basalt Provinces (FBP), identifying pahoehoe magma flow, breccia, and poorly formed columnar-jointed basalt. We saw evidence of fissure eruptions, with scoria and ‘rumbly’ textures formed when lava met water—a stark contrast to what we observed in Yellowstone.

Our second stop was at the Columbia Hills Fault Zone and Anticline, where we observed the Columbia Hills anticline–a Yakima Fold Belt structure. From our roadside vantage point, we could see horizontal rock layers forming a distinct arc, with a stepwise rock structure dipping west on one side and east on the other. These mild deformations resulted from the Yakima folding event, during which lava flowed over the hill and cooled at an angle. The primarily vertical flows then underwent crustal deformation due to hot spot plume activity, where the crust separated and jammed into surrounding formations, creating a small but significant folding event.

Coyote Cliff hike.

Photo by Sofia Iuteri.

Multnomah waterfall.

Photo by Sofia Iuteri.

At Coyote Cliff, we embarked on a challenging four-mile hike with a 1,500-foot elevation gain, marveling at the striking 120-degree columnar joint fractures. Here, we discussed the Miocene era–a period of extreme warmth (~850 ppm CO2 in the atmosphere)—and its relevance to modern climate change. This ancient climate event serves as a stark warning, illustrating a potential worst-case scenario if humans continue to accelerate CO2 emissions unchecked.

At the Grand Ronde Basalt section, we observed evidence of lava flow inflation, where molten rock pushed up beneath hardened crust, creating unique formations. The exposed rock layers, part of the Teepee Butte Member, displayed a mix of rusty red, black, and orange hues due to mineral deposits. The rock was brittle and flaky, a result of past geological forces bending and breaking the layers over time. One of our most fascinating discussions was about carbon sequestration–where CO2 is extracted from the atmosphere, liquefied, and stored in microscopic pores within basalt rock. This sparked a broader conversation on how natural processes inform geoengineering solutions to combat climate change.

Our day concluded at Multnomah Falls, where we enjoyed the breathtaking scenery, a refreshing conclusion to a day of rigorous geologic study.

My journey exploring Yellowstone, the Columbia River Basalts, Mount Hood, and Mount Saint Helens through the Earth Lab Volcanoes of the U.S. course is an experience I look back on with deep appreciation. As my first spring term class at W&L, it combined two weeks of oncampus learning with two weeks of travel to Yellowstone, Oregon, and Washington. Beyond forming lifelong friendships, I also discovered an unexpected passion for geology—an area I might never have explored otherwise. Studying volcanic functions and historical case studies in the classroom, then witnessing real-world volcanoes, waterfalls, and wildlife, was truly awe-inspiring. This immersive experience reinforced the value of interdisciplinary learning and deepened my appreciation for how education can strengthen human-nature connections through geology, culture, and history. Traveling with purpose redefined exploration for me, blending academic curiosity with personal discovery.

Group photo during Coyote Wall Trail hike overlooking the Columbia River.

Photo by Sofia Iuteri.

Run club in Bozeman at sunset.

Photo by Sofia Iuteri.

Group photo at entrance to Yellowstone National Park. Photo by Sofia Iuteri.

KAIA BEDDOWS

SUMMER RESEARCH AND NATURAL BRIDGE

What’s better than being on campus for summer research? Exploring the Rockbridge area in all its peaceful warmth! I took every opportunity to embark on little adventures with the best group of roommates I could have asked for.

While Natural Bridge looks incredible in pictures, it’s even more breathtaking in person. Standing over 200 feet tall, the natural formation is jaw-dropping; it truly made me appreciate the sheer grandeur of the local landscape.

Although my research wasn’t environmentally focused—I was investigating the impacts of the #MeToo Movement in the music industry—visiting Natural Bridge and hiking the surrounding trails provided a much-needed mental reset.

Stepping away from complex topics reminded me how healing it can be to simply exist in nature. Living on campus this summer deepened my appreciation for our incredible surroundings and reinforced the importance of taking time to enjoy them whenever possible.

Name: NishaWalvekar

Destination: Badlands

NationalPark,SouthDakota

“My primary goal was toexplorebarrenlandscapesand how they can inspire natural art...I[also]learnttonotcarry overthefearandworriesfrom thepreviousdaytothenext. Thinkingofeachdayasafresh startwasthebestlessonItook away while camping in the badlands!”

Name:Addie-GraceCook

Destination: RockbridgeCounty,VA

“IappliedforaKendrickgrant torunthelengthofRockbridgeCounty inoneday...[T]hemostimportantthing Ilearnedisthatitisimpossibletotruly “know” a place. I wanted to run RockbridgeCountytolearnmoreabout it,toseeasmuchofitaspossible.But duringmytrainingandaftertherun,I realizedthatyoucan’treallyknowa placeasmuchasyoucanknowyourself inthatplace.Wechangealongsidethe placesweinhabit.”

Name: Nora Jacobson

Destination: Meadows Park, VA

“My time with the Kendrick taught me the importance of young people’s perspectives on the natural world. By traveling back to a place of childhood significance, I had the privilege of seeing it through fresh eyes and with a new level of appreciation.”

Name: LorenHertzler

Destination: KingsCanyon

NationalPark,California

“MygoalwastobackpacktheRae Lakes Trail with my mom and see the Giant Sequoia trees (a lifelong dreamofmine)!Takingthistripwith my mom gave me the wonderful opportunitytolearnmoreaboutwho she is as a person and make new memorieswithher.Ialsolearneda lotaboutthesequoiatreesandthe scienceofthepark!”

Right:Cookachievedhergoalwith alittlehelpfromherfriends.

Above&Right:Snapshotsfrom Walvekar’scloseencounterswithbison whilemakingacomicforherproject.

Above:Hertzler’sbackpackingtripincluded breathtakingmountainviews,altitudesickness, andblockprinting.

TopLeft:Thefourrecipientsposefora pictureinElrodCommons. Above:Scenicmarshlandviewsfromthe HuntleyMeadowsboardwalk.

Left:Asample ofJacobson’s watercolor illustrations.

ARTHUR’S SEAT, THE SCOTTISH LOWLANDS, AND THE ENGLISH COUNTRYSIDE

STORY AND PHOTOS BY MARGARET A. COUGHLAN

Washington and Lee students, known for their workhard, play-hard attitude, often seek diverse academic and nature-based opportunities, even in the summer. The Virginia Program at Oxford, a long-standing W&L tradition, offers a unique blend of pre-1700 literature and history coupled with immersive outdoor experiences. This past summer, in 2024, students explored the Scottish Lowlands and the English countryside, embarking on exhilarating hikes and discovering serene rivers.

One of the program’s most memorable rest days took students to Edinburgh, Scotland—specifically to Arthur’s Seat. This striking landmark, situated in Holyrood Park in the heart of the city, is steeped in legend, often linked to the mythical home of Camelot. The hike is brimming with history, standing adjacent to Holyrood Palace, the official Scottish residence of the British royal family. Holyrood Park also encompasses St. Margaret’s Well and St. Margaret’s Loch. Visitors must be careful not to wander too far off the beaten path, as the lesser-traveled hilltops are historic skylark ground-nesting areas from April through August.

While the climb isn’t particularly strenuous, it remains an adventure. This writer managed it in a skirt and leather shoes, and it’s common to see families with young children and even small dogs tackling the ascent—sometimes in sandals! Yet, despite its accessibility, the view inspires all who see it, calling them back again and again. The ocean glistens as the landscape morphs from solitude to the city; the Royal Mile stretches toward the sea, speckled with islands. The Seat is a place where reality slips away, and one can imagine the legendary figures of the United Kingdom walking, living, and breathing. The hilltops are dotted with starlings and woven with grass and heather, reminiscent of the sea’s rolling waves.

Beyond Scotland’s cities, the Lowlands captivate with their idyllic ruins and roaring rivers. Just outside of Doune Castle—famed as a filming location for Monty Python and the Holy Grail and Outlander—flows the River Teith, where locals fish, dogs swim, and even college students seek respite from the summer heat.

Speaking of rivers, the River Cherwell, a tributary of the Thames, runs through Oxford and its colleges, providing delight to all those who seek its waters. Punting, a form of boating in which a long pole propels the vessel along the riverbed, is a popular pastime, with some docks run by Magdalen College students, encouraging outdoor enjoyment of the countryside. On the water, punters aren’t alone; ducks and geese often trail behind, hoping for a snack. Experience suggests the Cherwell ducks have a particular fondness for grape halves, which prevent them from choking on whole grapes.

For Washington and Lee students, summer study isn’t just about academics—it’s about adventure and discovery. Whether hiking Arthur’s Seat, swimming in the River Teith, or punting along the Cherwell, these experiences create lifelong memories in some of the world’s most idyllic settings, shared with new friends.

Explore Cape Cod

By Lily Nannini

The Guidebook To The Lower & Outer Cape

Ever since leaving for college, I’ve gained a profound appreciation for my hometown and living close to the ocean. I’m beyond grateful to get to experience the mountains in Lexington but, no matter where life takes me, I’ll always be a part of where I grew up. Extending 65 miles into the Atlantic off the southeastern part of Massachusetts, Cape Cod offers over 500 miles of pristine coastline, quaint seaside villages and infinite natural beauty. The region consists of four subdivisions, the Upper-, Mid-, Lower- and Outer-Cape, as well as the nearby islands, Nantucket and Martha’s Vineyard. In this article, I’ll take you through the Lower- and Outer-Cape to some of my favorite local spots, including the best places to watch sunrise and sunset, beloved New England dining selections and an endless summer worth of outdoor activities.

Welcome To Cape Cod

Walks

Nauset Marsh Trail—Starting at the Cape Cod National Seashore Salt Pond Visitor’s Center in Eastham, the Nauset Marsh Trail offers a 1.2-mile loop that winds along the shores of Salt Pond with an additional 1.5-mile out-and-back to Coast Guard Beach. Crossing through fields, forest, and marsh, the walk offers beautiful views at all times of day, though I prefer to go in the morning with a cup of coffee from one of the local shops.

Also checkout—Great Island, Kent’s Point, White Cedar Swamp Trail, Nickerson State Park, Fort Hill, Doane Rock, Kent’s Point, Wiley Park, Cape Cod Rail Trail

Fun fact—My friend and I have a tradition to rent a tandem bike and do the entire rail trail that spans the Cape from Yarmouth to Wellfleet. After over 50 miles of biking, we reward ourselves with avocado burgers, fries and milkshakes from the Knack.

Twin bridges, the Sagamore and the Bourne, connect the Cape to the mainland and serve as the only entrance and exit points by car. Visitors can also access the Cape by ferry and local airports.

Fun fact—Route 6 starts in Provincetown and runs 3,000 continuous miles, taking you from Cape Cod to California!

Beaches

Nauset Beach—Open to the public via parking lot and the only access point for driving oversand in Orleans, Nauset Beach might be my favorite place on Earth. The sandbars on the southside are some of the best on the Cape. I spent some of my favorite days growing up having breakfast, lunch and dinner on the southside.

There’s no better feeling than throwing on a hoodie as the sun begins to set after a full day at the beach. Between playing games, going for walks, beachcombing, jumping in the ocean, reading, tanning, napping, or simply chatting with friends, a day at Nauset provides limitless appeal for recreation and

relaxation. Many sections of the beach are dog-friendly so every member of the family can participate.

People always give a wave while driving past each other, making this place truly a slice of Heaven on Earth.

Also checkout—Race Point, Coast Guard, Newcomb Hollow, Lecount Hollow, Marconi, Duck Harbor, Cahoon Hollow, Whitecrest, First Encounter, Nauset Light, Skaket.

“

” I spent some of my favorite days growing up having breakfast, lunch and dinner on the southside.

Fun Fact —The Lady of the Dunes, recently identified as Ruth Marie Terry, a formerly unidentified murder victim, was found on July 26, 1974 in the Race Point Dunes. The 2024 documentary Lady of the Dunes: Hunting the Cape Cod Killer is currently available on Amazon Prime.

Land & Sea Activities

Beachcomb The Minus Tides—One of my favorite memories from this past summer was driving up to Ptown to search for pottery, old bottles, sea glass and other ocean treasures. I went with a few friends early in the morning, stopping for coffee at The Hole in One in Eastham on the way. The minus tide, when the low-water level is lower than the zero point, allowed us to walk farther out than we could during a normal low tide. My biggest score of the morning was a small bottle over 100 years old I found buried in the sand.

Sunrise and Sunset—As promised, these are my favorite locations to view some of the best sunrises and sunsets in the world. For sunrise, I recommend Coast Guard Beach or Fort Hill in Eastham or Nauset Beach in Orleans. Fort Hill is a great spot with many walking trails and a magnificent view of the marsh and inlet. It’s also nice if you prefer to watch the sunrise from the comfort of your car. Coast Guard and Nauset are my favorites to see the sun appear directly on the horizon. Morning light is my favorite time of day and its fleeting nature makes me appreciate it even more. I can’t imagine a better way to start the day than strolling down the beach, watching the seals and seagulls, collecting rocks, getting a cup of coffee after and enjoying a morning slowdown while driving through the winding backroads. To end the day, First Encounter Beach in Eastham consistently astounds me. At low tide, you’ll often see people walking the flats that extend miles off shore. Here, you can enjoy the sunset from your car in the parking lot, or step out and enjoy the salt air. It takes a small portion of your day to see the sunrise and sunset, but leaves you with lasting fulfillment.

More activities—Beach bonfire under the stars and s’mores, stargazing, climb the Pilgrim Monument in Ptown, explore the dunes, fly over the Cape with Stick’n Rudder sightseeing airplane tours, watch a movie at the drive-in, go to a summer league baseball game, have a picnic in the park, go for a boat ride, paddle board, kayak, have a glass of wine at Truro Vineyards, eat world-famous Wellfleet oysters, shop at the farmer’s markets, attend local festivals, visit the lighthouses, view the hydrangeas, play pickleball, go clamming, go fishing, tour a cranberry bog, jump in the ocean!!

Fun Fact—the lighthouse on every bag of Cape Cod chips is in my hometown and less than a mile away from my high school!

Wildlife

The Cape offers an extensive amount of land and sea life, such as great white sharks, horseshoe crabs, gray, harbor and harp seals, north atlantic right whales, wild turkeys, snowy owls, coyotes, foxes, turtles, deer, bunnies, chipmunks, sunfish, hermit crabs, lobsters, seagulls, squirrels, and so much more. With endless opportunities to view wildlife, from birdwatching to diving to whale watching, the Cape continues to amaze both visitors and locals.

Fun Fact—my aunt’s sister’s husband got swallowed by a whale while diving off the coast of Provincetown and lived!

CAPE COD COCKTAIL

Cape Cod Mule

Ice

2 oz Triple 8 Nantucket cranberry vodka

6 oz ginger beer

½ lime, juiced

Lime wedge and Cape Cod cranberries

Fill a glass with ice. Pour in lime juice, vodka, then ginger beer. Stir. Garnish with lime and cranberries. Enjoy!

DINING + LOCAL FARE

With the boundless outdoor activities the Cape has to offer, you’re sure to get hungry. Luckily, the Cape has some of the freshest seafood and tastiest local fare I’ve ever had. Everytime I come home after being in Virginia, I have to get fish and chips. The dish is offered at almost every seafood restaurant on Cape, but my go-to is the Land Ho in Orleans, they also have trivia every Wednesday. Some seafood staples include tuna, striped bass, halibut, bluefish, scallops, cod, lobster and lobster rolls, steamers, swordfish, oysters, littlenecks, and stuffies (stuffed quahog clams). If you’re looking to indulge in some of the best fried seafood on Cape, look no further than Arnold’s in Eastham. The fried clam strips and onion rings are my absolute favorite. The best lobster egg rolls can be found at Lobster Pot Express in both Wellfleet and Ptown.

For lively nights out, Hog Island in Orleans and the Beachcomber in Wellfleet are a must. Both locations host a series of summer night events and entertainment, from local live bands to line dancing. Some popular local pints include Hog Island, Devil’s Purse, Naukabout, and Cape Cod Beer.

Also checkout—The Knack (burger, milkshake), Van Rensselaer’s (seafood linguine, potato crusted salmon, garlic bread, literally any dessert), Mahoney’s (tuna sashimi, cocktails, stuffed chicken, rosemary fries), Montano’s (carbonara, gnocchi, bolognese, picatta), Casa del Cabo (happy hour), Sam’s Deli (Harry Potter sandwich) and so so much more.

Fun fact—my friend shucked oysters for Bobby Flay at the restaurant we work at in Wellfleet

DAY TRIPS

If time allows, take the ferry to Nantucket or Martha’s Vineyard for a day or weekend trip and explore the charming streets and beautiful coastal houses on both islands.

Fun fact—The movie Jaws was filmed primarily on the Vineyard in 1974. The Hotel Nantucket by Nantucket author Elin Hilderbrand is one of my favorite books and the perfect summer beach read!

A Perfect Summer Day

Summertime offers the longest hours of daylight which means the perfect opportunity to make the most of it and enjoy a fulfilling day on Cape. Set an early alarm, bring a blanket, and head on over to Coast Guard Beach to watch the sun appear from beneath the horizon. Make sure to arrive 10-15 minutes before the actual sunrise to see the most vibrant colors. Don’t worry about being a little tired, there’s plenty of time for an afternoon beach nap later on. Morning light is arguably the best time of day, so take advantage of it while it lasts and stroll south down the beach to the inlet. Watch the sunlight sparkle in the waves, and enjoy the company of seagulls and seals as you walk. If it’s low tide, there’s a good chance of finding rocks, shells, driftwood and even seaglass. The current at the south end of Coast Guard Beach is strong and swift, but there’s a nice spot around the bend for a refreshing morning dip that’s protected from the waves. Plenty of post-sunrise breakfast options exist in Eastham and Orleans. If you’re looking for graband-go coffee and pastries, the Hole In One (donuts), the Hot Chocolate Sparrow (mocha), Jomamas (bagel, mocha), Cottage St. Bakery (cheese danish, muffin), Chocolate Cafe (coffee, breakfast sandwiches) and Whisk Cafe (danish, coffee) are all tried-and-true morning staples. If you prefer the traditional sit-down dining experience, I’d recommend The Rail (apple croissant, literally any benedict) or Sunbird (bird breakfast sandwich, iced mocha, quinoa porridge) in Orleans. Both locations offer outdoor seating and a great atmosphere.

With so much already accomplished and only a few hours into the day, it’s time to get ready for a trip to the beach. Drive down the backroads, enjoy the laid-back atmosphere, and head back to the house. After loading up the truck or the Jeep, make your way down to Nauset Beach. Whatever you’re driving, roll down the windows (take the top and doors off if it’s a Wrangler) to truly savor the salt air.

Some of my beach essentials include Sandcloud towels, games (Spikeball, waterproof Uno, Pro Kadima, Backgammon, Blokus), Sun Bum, a cooler with ice, Surfside, and sandwiches, sunglasses, speaker, beach chair, hat, trash bag (keep the beach clean!!), book, water bottle and hoodie. Also, don’t forget the shovel, wooden board and rope (required to drive oversand). When you get to the beach, air down in the parking lot, shift into 4-wheel drive, and crank up the radio. A rule of the road: make sure to pull over for people driving off the beach because they have the right of way, and always wave!

By late afternoon, it’ll be about time to pack up and head home to get ready for an early dinner. Hang the towels off the deck, keep the speaker playing, put some snacks out, and take turns in the outdoor shower to rinse off the sunscreen and salt. Dinner options are endless, though The Pearl in Wellfleet is a classic for rooftop and porch seating and always has live music. If you prefer to linger, stay and watch the sunset at the pier. If you want to keep the festivities going, head back toward Eastham for sunset at First Encounter. When the afterglow fades, make your way into town and brave the line at Ice Cream Cafe for the sweetest end to a perfect summer day.

Ilike to walk—not just as a way to get somewhere, but as a way to experience the world. But the world, to me, is not defined by the borders fought over in human conquests—it’s the waters that carve their own paths, the plants that dance with the wind, and the people whose lives intertwine like roots beneath the earth.

Walking is one of the last effortless ways to connect with nature—a quiet rebellion against a world that moves too fast. When I walk, time stretches. Alone, my thoughts evolve, meandering with each step. With company, conversation deepens, uninterrupted by the rush to arrive.

Walking lets me see what others overlook, feel what others forget. A spiral that never stops—each journey different, even along the same path, with no end to growth and discovery.

Global Footprints

The Blue Mountains, a World Heritage site in New South Wales, Australia, was a perfect day trip from where I was studying in Sydney. The hike was steep, winding through the sandstone ridges that make the region iconic. Along the way, we saw waterfalls and Surprisingly, the most challenging part of the hike was the descent. Stairs carved into the mountainside were steep and uneven. At the bottom, the landscape felt almost jungle-like—humid air, a dense tree canopy, and flooded trails from recent rain. I stepped unknowingly in one of these puddles and ended up with multiple leeches in my shoe. It was incredibly disgusting, but it cemented this hike as one of the most memorable. The tropical atmosphere at the base made it feel like I was hiking through the Amazon rather than Australia. Sydney is famed for its beaches, and the Bondi to Coogee Beach Walk is one of the most popular coastal trails. The 6 km route winds along dramatic cliffs and the deep blue ocean, with many spots where you can walk right by the water.

Sydney’s beaches are known for their cleanliness, and the ocean’s vibrant blue was incredibly peaceful. Some sections of the trail had rocks that extended right up to the sea, allowing us to stand and gaze at the waves as mist sprayed our faces. While beaches are often crowded, parts of this walk felt surprisingly private—just me, my friends, and the sound of the ocean.

We explored tide pools filled with algae and discovered a natural pool deep enough for swimming by Coogee Beach. My friend and I jumped in, only to be immediately swept away by the waves. The locals laughed at our expense, but it was one of the most fun days I had in

Bondi to Coogee Walk

Namsan Tower is an iconic part of Seoul’s skyline, perched atop a mountain. The hike begins in the city, gradually turning into a steep staircase on the mountainside. People of all ages make the climb, and at the top, couples leave locks to immortalize their love.

What made this hike unique was its location—right in the heart of Seoul. The view from the top wasn’t of untouched nature but of the sprawling city below, framed by distant mountains. Signs pointed out their names and directions, reminding me how Seoul is uniquely surrounded by nature despite being a massive urban hub. Unlike traditional hikes in remote wilderness, Namsan’s accessibility makes it a daily fitness routine for many locals. Even though it wasn’t the typical “mountaintop view,” it was still rewarding in its own way.

Tai O is a fishing village on Lantau Island, Hong Kong. We hiked to the Fu Shan Viewing Point, which translates to the “Viewing of Chinese White Dolphins.” These dolphins are threatened by overfishing, pollution, and development, but spotting one is considered a sign of luck.

We hiked at sunset, and the ocean was painted in shades of orange and red. The atmosphere on Lan tau Island starkly contrasted with the hyper-mod ern cityscape of Hong Kong. Much of the island remains untouched, and Tai O, with its rundown fishing houses and stilted structures, felt frozen in time.

Unlike Sydney’s beaches, which exude a sense of pristine beauty, the ocean here felt more like a resource—exploited and shaped by industry. This gave the island a somewhat dystopian feel, as if it existed in a parallel world, resisting modernization yet bearing the marks of human impact.

Global Footprints

Namsan Tower

everything better.” —

The Tadpole with Legs

India Balkaran

For months he has waited, And now he’s frustrated, For he had always been motivated By the ripples distorting the sun’s golden hues.

And though he has risen, No longer a polliwog, The colors that once danced in vibrant whispers, Are duller now, above the bog.

The pond is murky, the grass lies bare, Trees stand quiet, steeped in despair. His broken dreams of freedom dissolve in the air—

The earth is choking, and he can only stare.

Still, he lingers at the water’s edge, Half in the pond, bound to its ledge, A half-frog, half-tadpole, lost and torn, Dreaming of a world that could be reborn.

Sofia Iuteri

Founder &

Editor-in-Chief

Content created:

“The Destructive Dissociation Between the Self and Nature” “Beneath the Surface: Uncovering the Geologic Stories of the American West”

As the Founder and Editor-in-Chief of The Experience Exchange, I blend my passion for nature, entrepreneurship, and community engagement to foster deeper connections between people and the environment. My journey in impact-driven leadership began at 16 when I founded Hats4Healing Corp., a nonprofit providing handmade hats to pediatric cancer patients. Now, as a student-athlete at Washington & Lee University, I explore the intersection of sustainable business and the psychological benefits of nature immersion, expanding my efforts through writing, leadership, and advocacy.

Expertise:

Nonprofit Management & Growth: Founder of Hats4Healing Corp., skilled in scaling initiatives and forging strategic partnerships.

Business Development & Leadership: Vice President of the Connolly Entrepreneurship Society, experienced in strategic planning and innovation.

Content Creation & Editorial Leadership: Oversees a team producing compelling narratives, research-driven analyses, and visual storytelling.

Sustainability & Environmental Advocacy: Passionate about bridging the gap between urban life and nature through initiatives that promote environmental stewardship.

At The Experience Exchange, I lead a team in crafting thought-provoking content, securing funding, and organizing events that inspire a renewed appreciation for nature and sustainable business practices.

Mission Statement:

The Experience Exchange is dedicated to combating the "extinction of experience" by reconnecting the Washington & Lee and broader community with nature. Through innovative storytelling and dynamic initiatives, we aim to enhance well-being, foster environmental responsibility, and empower future leaders in sustainability and business.

Hi, I’m Calla, an editor/writer/photographer for The Experience Exchange. My experience in editing includes acting as Copy Editor, Photography Editor, Assistant Editor, and Editorin-Chief for my high school yearbook. My experience with writing includes short stories, one of which, The Hunter, won second place in my local library’s creative writing contest. My experience with photography includes lots of time spent as head photographer for my school yearbook and lots of time taking pictures for fun. I really like telling stories, whether through my writing or my photos, and I believe in the power of a good story. Anything, even an essay, can be a story of you write it well enough.

Expertise:

I focus on editing, helping provide suggestions to improve the content in each issue. I also write pieces on local areas to visit, as well as providing photography to show off the beauty of nature.

Mission Statement:

I believe in the power of getting people out in nature. I believe that the more positive experiences someone has outside, the more they will want to help protect the environment. If I can help a person find their love for nature, that’s one more person who will want to preserve the gifts of nature.

Calla Andrews Editor, Writer & Photographer

Content created:

“The Devil’s Marbleyard You Know”

India Balkaran Writer & Photographer

Content created:

“The Tadpole with Legs” Indonesia photography

Hi! I’m India, a writer/photographer for The Experience Exchange. I love taking inspiration from the natural world to create my pieces. My favorite things to photograph are sunrises and sunsets, but I also love taking photos of trees and the changes they experience at different times of day or throughout the seasons. I usually write poems about my personal experiences and inner feelings but I also love writing about the beauty of the world and every living being in it. My love of nature and focus on the natural world in my poetry and photography helps the experience exchange reach its goal of introducing our readers to our experiences with the natural world, with the intention of inspiring them to also go and experience the world around them.

Expertise:

I am a double major in Environmental Studies (climate change track), and Politics. I am a Facilitator Coordinator of Washington and Lee’s Women’s Leadership Team and a leader of their caribbean club (IRIE). I sometimes volunteer at the Campus Kitchen and have much experience identifying and analyzing igneous rocks and other volcanic materials.

Mission Statement:

I believe in the power of art and storytelling to deepen our connection with the natural world, striving to capture its beauty and struggles through poetry and photography that inspire awareness, reflection, and action. I believe in the amplification of diverse voices in this process, which is exactly what the Experience

Hi, I’m Kaia, a writer and editor for The Experience Exchange! My writing is mostly inspired by nature and I’m quite enthusiastic about poetry. My favorite poems to write always stem from an experience outside, typically when hikes, sunsets, or baby animals are involved. While I tend to write about personal experiences, I also enjoy crafting research essays and articles. I aspire to encourage others to see the value in taking a breath of fresh air: read a book on the colonnade, complete a homework assignment on the student activities porch, go for a stroll on Woods Creek Trail!

Expertise:

I’m an English major as well as an Earth Action Leader for the Women’s Varsity Track & Field team. I focus on literary research and creative writing, contributing to our magazine by conducting interviews with those who are equally as passionate about nature as we are, encapsulating their experiences in a fundamentally imaginative fashion!

Mission Statement:

I believe that everyone can benefit from growing to love nature. A community can truly flourish from kindness, collaboration, adventure, and passion! I strive for my writing to be a powerful motivator in educating people on the psychological perks nature has on ameliorating mental health, persuading every reader to reignite their love for experiencing the environment!

Kaia Beddows Editor & Writer

Content created: “Summer Research and Natural Bridge”

Rhonica A. Connor Writer

Content created:

“The People and the Sea” and accompanying photography

Hi, I’m Rhonica Ann Connor, a writer for The Experience Exchange. My experience includes writing and presenting poems for the Caribbean Festival of the Arts in 2019. Other writing experiences include writing poems for a local Anguillian magazine, True Anguilla, and articles for the Ring-Tum-Phi, Washington and Lee’s student newspaper. My passion lies in sharing aspects of culture in various art forms. Coming to America, I have become more passionate about doing this with the Anguillian lifestyle, which is what I am most familiar with. I love writing because it allows me to express the richness of my heritage and connect with others through words that can transcend borders.

Expertise:

I focus on poetry and bring fresh perspectives that highlight the beauty and depth of Anguillian culture. My focus is on preserving the spirit of Anguilla through this art form, and incorporating bits of dialect to invite readers into this traditional, cultural activity. My contributions not only entertain but also educate, and foster a deeper understanding of life in the Caribbean. I add value through a fresh, diverse perspective.

Mission Statement:

I believe in using art as a means of expression and transformation of perspectives, striving to inspire understanding, change, cultural empathy and empowerment to see the world differently. Through my poem, I hope to “big up” my home, Anguilla, and share the most special parts of my world with everyone who reads the piece.

Hi, I’m Margaret, but you can call me Meg! I’m an editor and writer for the Experience Exchange. I grew up in rural Pennsylvania and New Hampshire, so the outdoors has always been a part of my life. Whether that is gardening and creating delicious recipes from locally-grown produce or preserving wildflowers that I find on hikes. Getting to share my experiences in nature through writing has brought me so much joy this semester, as it is through sharing expertise and adventures that we grow stronger both as a community and as explorers ourselves.

Expertise:

As an English major, much of my time is devoted to writing academic works, so getting to branch out and do more narrative pieces as well as shorter informative pieces has been a real pleasure. My knowledge of herbs and plants mainly comes from my almost four years of work on a historically accurate Medicinal Kitchen Garden in the 18th-century style. In the Experience Exchange, I focus on writing shorter narrative pieces about my travels and knowledge of the outdoors.

Mission Statement:

I believe that nature has so much to offer; we simply must take the time to explore it! Whether that be time spent in nature to improve one’s mood or local produce and foraged items that can be used to produce seasonal treats! There is so much to learn from the world around us simply by

Margaret Anne Coughlan Writer & Editor

Content created: “Arthur’s Seat, the Scottish Lowlands, and the English Countryside” and accompanying photography

Townsend Dotterer Writer

Content created:

“A Love Letter to the Outing Club” and accompanying photography

Hi, I’m Townsend, an alumni writer for The Experience Exchange. I graduated W&L class of 2023, but came back in the fall of 2024 to work for the Outing Club as the “Outing Club Specialist,” which was a beautiful chance to immerse myself in the parts of the W&L community that praise the importance of outdoor experience. It was a wonderful chance to be reminded of the energy that W&L students bring to everything they do. I have so enjoyed getting to know so many wonderful students and getting to participate in some of the Experience Exchange meetings, and it is an honor to express some of my perspective and gratitude on the community within the Outing Club.

Expertise:

I am currently serving as an agriculture volunteer for the Peace Corps in Nepal, but look forward to a continued relationship with the Experience Exchange. Personally, I find deeply immersive, hands-on experiences, like App Adventure, PE180, studying abroad in college, living in New Zealand for a year, and now the Peace Corps, to have been my most pivotal and challenging phases of life, and so I aim to encourage these among you all. It is in these experiences we gain the confidence and skills to support others in positive change.

Hi! I’m Carolyn, a graphic designer and illustrator for The Experience Exchange. Some of experience includes Scholastic photography awards, social council at Cambridge School of Dallas, and four years of school newspaper, and my passion lies in helping people better appreciate the beauty of nature.

Expertise:

I focus on connecting people to nature through art and creating spaces in which people can appreciate our world in the way we were created to. In our magazine, I try to create designs and art that inspire readers to look at the world around them through a different lens.

Mission Statement:

I believe that nature was created for people, and people for nature, striving to show the world that every part of our world, including humanity, has beauty in its own right.

Content created: Designed pages 10-11, “The People and The Sea” illustration

Carolyn Flowers Graphic Designer,

Nora Jacobson Writer

Content created:

“The 2024 Kendrick Award: Four Girls’ Journeys to Reconnect with the Outdoors”

Hi, I’m Nora, a new writer for The Experience Exchange! I spent a lot of time at local nature parks growing up, first as a curious kid and later as a volunteer for my home county. Now, as a student of both environmental studies and the English language, I strive to combine my passions for writing and the natural world whenever I can. My experience includes publication in FCPS Community News, W&L’s literary magazine Ampersand, and time spent interning for Shenandoah Literary Magazine.

Expertise:

I hope that my contributions to The Experience Exchange will continue to diversify, including everything from interview-heavy pieces to poetry submissions!

Mission Statement:

I believe that environmental education should lie at the heart of efforts to combat the climate crisis. People must first be taught to love the natural world if there is any hope of working together effectively to save it. A bright future lies ahead, and it starts with us!

Hello, I am Mary Jordan Janeski, a Graphic Design and Layout Editor for The Experience Exchange. I was a graphic design intern in Summer of 2023 and I founded and led GreenLife, a youth environmental advocacy group in my hometown of Spartanburg, South Carolina. At Washington and Lee University, I am an Eco-Representative, executive member of SPEAK, and a member of Kappa Alpha Theta. My passion lies in creating beautiful visuals to give life to people’s stories.

Expertise:

In The Experience Exchange, I focus on page layouts, contributing to our magazine by organizing and creating eye-catching graphics.

Mission Statement:

I believe in authenticity and out-of-the-box thinking, and I strive to engage readers in our writers’ experiences through my contribution in The Experience Exchange.

Content created: Designed page 60

Mary Jordan Janeski Graphic Designer & Layout Editor

Adelaide Loving Editor

Hi, I’m Adelaide, an editor for The Experience Exchange. I’m an English and Business major who works at the W&L Writing Center. I also have interned with Shenandoah literary magazine, and love any opportunity to travel and enjoy the outdoors. My passion lies in telling compelling stories, appreciating the little details, and expressing one’s vision through writing.

Expertise:

I help contributors to polish their writing in order to share their experiences in a way that is most engaging and authentic.

Mission Statement:

I believe that both writing and nature hold all the beauty a soul may need.

Hi, I’m Lily, a writer and photographer for The Experience Exchange. As a 2023 and 2024 IES Abroad Blogger and social media correspondent, my passion lies in exploring the natural world and sharing its beauty through narrative and images to foster and maintain genuine connection.

Expertise:

I focus primarily on adventures from abroad and my fondness for growing up on Cape Cod. My background as an English major guides my contribution to our magazine by inspiring individuals to seek wild places from a persuasive, personal and wholehearted perspective.

Mission Statement:

I believe in the restorative properties of undisturbed time in nature to incite connection to our environment, our companions, and ourselves, striving to encourage the prioritizing of outdoor immersion as a lasting curative for individual and social well-being.

Lily Nannini Writer & Photographer

Content created: “Escape to Nature,” “Guidebook to Cape Cod” and accompanying photography

Hudson Pitchford Editor

Hi, I’m Hudson, and I’m an editor for The Experience Exchange. I love traveling and getting outside, especially hiking, camping, and backpacking. I also enjoy kayaking and canoeing, and have dipped my toes into canyoning, rock climbing, skiing, biking, and white-water rafting. .

Expertise:

While I’m not a writer at heart, I enjoy editing for others, helping our contributors create consistent structure and style in their writing (as well as taking care of some traditional type editing). I am focused on creating a good experience for our readers and making sure that the articles in The Experience Exchange are the best they can be.

Mission Statement:

I believe that getting out into the great outdoors is an essential part of the experience, and that as a society we need to do a better job of understanding and protecting the environment around us so that we can both protect the world’s beautiful nature and ensure the prosperity of future generations. I hope that our work on this magazine will help inspire our readers to care a little bit more about the world around us, and to get out there and experience something for themselves.

Hi, I’m Celeste Silva-Carrillo, a Graphic Designer for the Experience Exchange. I’m an intended English and CBSC double major with a minor in Art History, and I work as a University Ambassador. I enjoy writing about nature, either through prose or poetry, in my free time and being outdoors for inspiration on my next writing piece.

Expertise:

I focus on creating meaningful graphics that accurately represent the magazine and its partners with the aim of delivering an authentic look into the brilliance of nature and its resources.

Mission Statement:

I believe in the unifying and introspective qualities of the outdoors that inspire and heal, and I hope to encourage others through my contributions in the Experience Exchange to find those experiences.

Celeste SilvaCarrillo Graphic Designer

Content created: Logo Design, Ad for JungaChai, Promo Flyer

Easterly Yeaman Graphic Designer & Layout Editor

Content created:

Designed pages 1-2, 8-9, 28-29, 40, 43, 63-66

Hi, I’m Easterly Yeaman, and I am a graphic designer for The Experience Exchange. I am from Dallas, Texas, and I am an intended journalism major here at W&L. I want to expand my skills as a designer as a part of the Experience Exchange. I am passionate about creating compelling page designs that encapsulate the story of each writer in their experience with nature and weave stories and visuals together.

Expertise:

I have experience designing for my high school newspaper The Eagle Edition and literary magazine Itinerary, and more recently for InGeneral magazine here at W&L. I focus on page design, contributing to the magazine by bringing together student writing and prose with photography, illustration and other design elements.

Mission Statement:

I believe in using design as a means to amplify others’ voices and experiences as well as creating visually engaging narratives that celebrate creative expression. I love the outdoors and enjoy sharing my own and others experiences with nature.

Hi, I’m Charlie, and I’m a writer and editor for The Experience Exchange. My experience includes contributions as a staff writer for The Jungle Journal, an environmentally oriented non profit publishing on topics related to conservation, indigenous communities, and ecology across Latin America, as well as my thesis research on the political ecology of the green energy transition. My passion lies in the intersection of political economy and global ecological sustainability. In particular, my interests are centered on the imperative of global decarbonization to avert climate change disaster scenarios, and the prevalence of so-called ‘sacrifice zones’ of ecological degradation in green energy supply chains.

Mission Statement:

I believe that the threats posed to the living world by global ecological breakdown implore our generation to act, and I hope to inspire people to care. The topics I cover are generally serious, but I genuinely do hope they give people a realistic perspective of the task at hand, and that they inspire people to get involved in environmentalism.

Charlie Wohlgemuth Editor

& Writer

Content created: “Lithium Extractivism in the Atacama & The Meaning of 21st Century Environmentalism” and “COP29 in Baku: A New Deal On Climate Finance”