by Ariana Teegarden

“In all things of nature there is something of the marvelous” - Aristotle

After a week of hard work, nature was exactly what everyone needed as it is known to have positive effects such as a sense of calmness and joy. In April, a group of graduate students traversed through the Yellowwood for a hike. Community building is essential for fostering relationships and a sense of belonging. Prof. Rhi Johnson volunteered to lead students on the hike, which not only cultivated camaraderie, but also promoted experiential learning and bonds that extend beyond the classroom.

As spring approached, students eagerly awaited the warm weather and sunshine after a long winter. Engaging in several conversations with students, a sense of excitement began to grow as everyone looked forward to a mini escape from Bloomington. The Graduate Student Advisory Committee (Anthony Brandy, Ari Plymale, Ariana Teegarden, Caroline Amodeo Williams, Erika Sosa, Giada Mirelli, and Marcela Lemos) then organized a social event in the department of Spanish and Portuguese that encouraged everyone to get outside and enjoy nature.

The hike itself came with its own challenges and entertainment as we began on one path then took the “road less traveled” as we crossed a stream of water in the first fifteen minutes of our hike. Dr. Johnson ensured we were on the right path and everyone felt adventurous, heading straight towards the rocky path that quickly turned into running water. A few encounters with some friendly critters and the occasional snake also provided a laugh or two as we cautiously made our way through the trail to the other side.

After spending two hours hiking, and 5 miles later, we made the most of the beautiful day with a picnic where GSAC provided a medley of goods to craft sandwiches. Everyone from the department was welcome, and even some furry friends from the department joined. The warm environment invited easy conversation not only about our projects at work but also our own hobbies and interests outside of the workplace. The Spanish, Portuguese and Catalan students studying Literature, Culture and Linguistics mingled together, learning and laughing from one another as we inhabited the new role of hikers.

Over the course of the academic year, this year’s GSAC held a variety of activities such as going apple picking in the fall, a series of game nights, and a trip to Mother Bears for a pizza night. Diversifying our social events this year allowed us to bond in new ways, forming friendships outside of the workplace. We plan to continue growing stronger together in the future. Why not go out and enjoy the gift of nature? What a wonderful gift to enjoy the pure joy of conversation with friends on a sunny day.