Adventure Awaits Me

Since I’m a true city girl at heart—and one who has never desired to travel to America’s south—I would never have believed I’d be excited to go to Alabama. But I am. After doing all the abstract research on Rural Studio that I possibly can, I’m making the leap into real, “visceral” research. I will see the impoverished communities of Hale County for myself, and see what Rural Studio is all about. I hope to gain a better understanding of why I am so enthralled with this program, and with the issue of poverty. Throughout this process, many people have asked me why I’m so passionate about this particular issue, and I don’t know how to answer. I guess I’ve always been one to root for the underdog, and I have a serious loathing for disparity. I also want to die knowing that I’ve used my life wisely, rather than frivolously.

I don’t yet have a specific plan for my time there, but through the graces of the Internet and an evolving and ever-growing grapevine of generous people, I’ve connected with some who are graciously offering to help. I’ve been constantly amazed by the generosity and hospitality of those I’ve been in contact with. As a matter of fact, I’ve been set up with a place to stay and have already been invited to dinner on my first night, with a group of people I’ve never met. I love it…reminds me of my favorite place—Italy!

I’ve also recently come into the knowledge that the faculty members in my program are paying close attention to what I’m doing with this project. They are very curious to see what comes of this; they want to use my insights to better connect the program with a new set of ethical values. That is a huge weight to bear, but one that I take as a vote of confidence in my ability to deliver.

I will update as it comes!