Throughout the past three months, I have embarked on a journey of learning about different topics of sustainability, and ways to share and express my values regarding the different topics. Climate and eco-anxiety have always been a problem that I, as an aspiring environmental scientist, am constantly combatting. Through discussions with peers in class and the Cosphere platform, I have been more confident in expressing and unleashing my environmental values, knowing that there is someone out there who shares similar values with me. Finding and generating ideas with this group of people have given me a sense of hope and optimism in combating the climate crisis. Sure a lot of systemic changes still needed to the done before the world is truly sustainable, but this class has given me the skills and sense of belonging to help make these big changes.
This class has taught me to be courageous in sharing my core values and has given me the opportunity to use what I've learned throughout my degree to make big changes. I envision a world where people have the confidence in unleashing their genuine environmental values, and like-minded people can work together to make big systemic changes towards sustainability. Learning about the importance of speaking up and advocating for changes, I will continue this mentality as I pursue my career, proactively campaigning for systemic changes.
Hi Meagan, I loved reading your post. I also feel the same way about the course teaching me to be courageous in sharing my values as an Environmental Science student.
This was so lovely to read! I really relate too! Courage is hard to conjure in the face of so much negativity in the world generally. SO much of environmental science is based in studying destruction! Watching us all build in this class was very refreshing!
This is so lovely to read! I totally share your experience–when I started sharing stuff on Instagram I really wasn't sure what kind of response I would get, but people were way more engaged and supportive than I expected, on and offline! This has encouraged me to continue to be a bit more active on social media with this stuff.
In a field that seems to be riddled with apathy and dread for the future this course provided a needed escape from the "all hope is lost" mind set.
Hey! I loved reading your take. I completely agree that it felt like a journey, and finding ideas/ debating with the class was very enlightening :)
Great reflection Megan! I also believe that the groups used to tackle a problem was a big way to collaborate and attempt to solve some of these environmental issues.
Hi Meagan,
I also loved the Cosphere aspect of this course. I enjoyed learning about others thoughts and opinions about the topics we learned in class.
Hi Meagan, I believe that we all need to do our part if we want to see systemic change and I know, after taking this class, that we can do a lot to help our world!
I love your post Meagan - it feels "real" and grounded in its sentiments. I especially relate to your feeling that the course has offered a "sense of belonging" in making the big changes we discussed.
I think I often experience imposter synodrome, which coupled with climate anxiety makes for one debilitating outlook. However, in learning that individual changes such as publicly boycotting companies, or advocating for transformative legislation can make a difference, and that we are capable of it, this course has shifted my view for the better!
Nicely wrapped up, a lot of true words spoken! I also feel like the course felt like a great space for opening up and expressing values.
I agree with a lot of the points you made Meagan! Thanks for sharing.
I agree- having a space where we can see our dreams echoed is so important. Such a wonderful exercise in showing the power of environmental optimism :)
Great reflection Meagan! Learning about the problems facing the health of our planet can be very discouraging, but I agree with you that this course encouraged us to be optimistic of the impact that individual actions (through the expression of our values) can have on our future. Societal norms can change if enough of us express our core values!
A great reflection. I also feel more confident in expressing and unleashing my environmental values.
Hi Meagan,
I think you made a great point - this class highlighted how there will be someone who shares the same values that you hold. That is why it is important to open up these conversations!
Awesome reflection!