My STEP Signature Project was an immersive, dual-focused program based in Sedona, Arizona. The initiative comprised two core aspects: providing service through trail restoration work within the Red Rock District, and an adventure component which was an eight-day backpacking and river expedition through the Grand Canyon. The trail restoration work was necessitated by severe flooding that had drastically damaged the pre-existing trails, while the expedition was planned with an emphasis on adhering to Leave No Trace principles to ensure the conservation of the environment we were traversing.
Throughout the process of completing this project, I experienced a profound shift in my understanding of both myself and my place within the wider world. The vastness of nature and the intricacies of its balance became deeply etched into my consciousness. As a Biomedical Engineering student, I am usually concerned with microscopic cells and tiny alterations within the human body that can affect health and well-being. However, being in the heart of such an expansive environment made me realize that I am a minute component in a much larger ecosystem. This perspective allowed me to reframe some of my personal worries regarding academics and my future; I saw them in a different light and felt a relief from the pressure I typically impose upon myself.
Additionally, my previous assumptions about my personal environmental impact and the history of land utilization were also radically changed. I was forced to confront the uncomfortable truths about the historical mistreatment of Native American populations and their lands, leading to a transformation in my worldview.
The pivotal transformative moments in my STEP Signature Project arose from distinct instances in both components of the program. During the trail restoration work, I was able to interact with hikers from all walks of life who expressed gratitude for our efforts. This direct appreciation made me comprehend the importance of my actions, and I was gratified to see the tangible difference we made within a few days. The realization that even small contributions could significantly impact the environment instilled a new sense of responsibility within me. I realized that as individuals, we all hold a degree of accountability for preserving the environment.
Subsequently, the adventure aspect of the project allowed me to immerse myself into the environment I had just contributed to restoring. The vast expanse of the Grand Canyon and the tranquility of the wilderness offered a serene setting for introspection, allowing me to reevaluate my personal beliefs and values. As I ventured further into the heart of nature, my respect and awe for the world around me grew exponentially.
Additionally, learning about the history and culture of Native American tribes in the area served as a critical learning experience. Realizing their deep-rooted connection to the land and how this connection has been systematically eroded due to colonialism and political machinations forced me to reassess my understanding of land and resource usage, offering a more nuanced view of my role within this system.
The transformation that this project sparked within me holds tremendous value for my life. Academically, as a Biomedical Engineering major, I have gained a more holistic perspective on the interconnectedness of all life forms, understanding that my work cannot exist in a vacuum and must consider larger environmental contexts. This appreciation for nature and our role within it complements my studies, providing a broader lens through which to view my academic pursuits.
On a personal level, this transformation has resulted in a heightened appreciation for the outdoors and a profound sense of calm that I find when immersed in nature. It has motivated me to regularly set aside time for outdoor activities, allowing me to balance the stresses of academic life with periods of calm and introspection. This newfound connection with the environment has also deepened my social responsibility, leading me to engage more actively in conservation efforts and advocate for indigenous rights.
Professionally, the experience has shown me the possibilities of incorporating my passion for the environment into my career. It has inspired me to consider how I might integrate principles of environmental conservation into my work as a biomedical engineer, perhaps developing sustainable medical technologies or advocating for environmental considerations within the biomedical field. The lessons I have gleaned from this project will act as a guide for my future decisions, reminding me of the importance of our world’s interconnectedness and the urgency of preserving it for future generations.