November 5, 2026
Transitions are never easy. Whether you are moving across the country or simply transitioning to a different role like I did, change is a very real and scary thing. In the last few months, my life has changed completely. I graduated college, some of my best friends moved across the country, I had a whirlwind of a summer spent in the backcountry of the Bob Marshall Wilderness, and now I’m two months into my position as an AmeriCorps VISTA.
I still come to the University of Montana every day and work with the amazing team at the Office of Sustainability, the program I interned with for three years as an undergrad student… but everything else is different. I’m in charge of my own projects, members of my office look to me for leadership, every minute of my day is not scheduled out like it was in school, and I’ve even been a supervisor to our new student intern while a coworker was on maternity leave! All this change has come with a lot of learning. I’ve had to learn to manage my own schedule, be responsible for my own projects, and learn how to function as a full-time member of the team, not just a student employee. It’s been difficult, but I’ve been able to learn many great skills that I can take with me even after my service term ends.
In addition to all of the changes and learning, there has also been much success! A big part of my VISTA role at UM Sustainability has been opening and running the new on-campus thrift store open to all UM staff, faculty, and students. There has been an overwhelmingly positive response from the campus community as folks can now find dorm supplies, appliances, and both casual and career clothes without having to drive to another thrift store in Missoula. Secondhand shopping is a great way to reduce both waste and consumption, and I’m thrilled to have a hand in doing something so new and innovative on UM’s campus.
Additionally, we just wrapped up Campus Sustainability Month in October, and I’m happy to report that the month was chalk full of activities and events to connect students to UM’s sustainability efforts. From the annual Fall Clothing Swap on the Oval to the first Upcycling Workshop at the UC Crafty Corner, I was able to meet students where they are and help them figure out how to live sustainably in a world built on overconsumption.
With ten months left to go, I’m excited to see where my position takes me and the growth I will continue to have. There is always something new to learn, but I’m ready to take on the challenge. A big thanks to everyone who has helped me on my way this far along. I can’t wait to see what is next!
