Growing up in a small town, it is easy to forget that a bigger world exists. During the past few days, from flying over the Andes to hiking for miles to the bluest, clearest body of water I have ever beheld (and getting stuck in mud too many times to count), I have constantly been reminded of how small I am in relation to this planet. I have met people from Germany, Sweden, Luxemburg, Iceland, the United Kingdom, New Zealand, and India and heard stories from a man who has traveled to Antarctica over 100 times. This expedition has brought together people from so many walks of life, from musicians and artists to university professors and scientists. As teenagers, the possibilities of how to use our interests to effect positive social change are truly endless. When sampling an Argentinean barbecue (I tried the lamb!), touring a beautiful cemetery in Buenos Aires, and riding down one of the widest avenues in South America, I get a real urge to experience everything and learn as much as I can. I am thrilled and humbled to meet passionate people of my own age who have voiced their opinions on town councils and organized events to advocate for environmental conservation. The world is so massive, complex, and breathtaking. It is reassuring to enjoy such a capable network of people and to know that I am never alone.

Leah Davidson

Sherbrooke, Québec, Canada

STUDENTS ON ICE is an award-winning organization offering unique educational expeditions to the Antarctic and the Arctic. Their mandate is to provide students, educators and scientists from around the world with inspiring educational opportunities at the ends of the Earth and, in doing so, help them foster a new understanding and respect for the planet.

This entry was posted on Monday, January 2nd, 2012 at 3:43 pm and is filed under Blog. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed.You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.