Steven R. 2012 Fellow
“A lot went according to plan on my Gap Year, and a lot was improvised as I went. The highlights included trail maintenance of the Pacific Crest Trail in Wenatchee, Washington, organic farming north of Flagstaff, animal care at a goat sanctuary in New Mexico, and chainsaw work in southern Utah. Throughout the year I met dozens of interesting and driven people, many of whom I'm still in contact with today. I'm now an Anthropology major at Kenyon College, and in addition to my studies I live and work on a student run farm. The skills I gained during that year have helped me immensely since arriving in Ohio. From practical experience in organic farming, to a better understanding of the diverse backgrounds of my peers, I'm exceedingly thankful that I had the opportunity to take a Gap Year. For anyone considering taking the year I would say go for it! Taking a year to do something meaningful, and perhaps even scary, can provide you with immeasurable insight about yourself, your background, and the world we all share.”