This study abroad trip through the School of Journalism and Mass Communications was the best, most eye-opening experience I’ve ever taken part in. During my time in Switzerland and France, I grew as an individual and learned so much about different cultures and people. I was privileged to meet and talk with locals about their experiences in a ski town while trying to better understand the effects of climate change in the region. My travels have taken me far, but this trip was with such a large group of people with diverse interests and backgrounds. I loved sharing stories and hearing about different pasts and perspectives throughout this trip. I grew so close with my study abroad class, and I created long-lasting connections because of this journey. My favorite moments were when the class gathered for dinner at Irish Coffee, a quiet little spot with a large patio with the perfect view of the mountain landscape. We would share food and special moments while becoming closer and creating friendships. There were no cliques or groups, and we all had the chance to bond together so closely. We would take cable car rides to the top of Mont Blanc together and just stare in awe at the views. It was such a breathtaking experience with unbelievable beauty. While we conducted our research and spoke to locals about climate change, it was so amazing to gather different perspectives and use our French language skills to connect with people on a deeper level. I faced challenges and at times, was afraid to talk to people, but I was encouraged by my peers to step out of my comfort zone, and it was worth it.
I wanted to learn more about how a little place like Chamonix, France, could be so dependent on tourists and outsiders. I spoke with restaurant owners, tourists and other locals to see how their perspectives differed. I learned so much about how the climate is affected by global warming, including the cloud pollution and glacial deterioration that I observed in the Alps. I learned that if less tourists visited the town, the economic impacts would devastate the region. Not only does climate change affect the people in Chamonix, but it also has larger implications for the wildlife. Our class had the chance to travel to a national research institute that studied wildlife patterns and the way mating seasons are devastatingly affected by climate change. We observed tadpoles, frogs, marmots and birds that have been adapting every day to the changes in geography caused by rising global temperatures. The resource scarcity and adaptation to more elevated environments were most interesting to me. If temperatures rise in a specific part of the mountain, the animals adapt and move further up, which decreases their chance for survival. This is because resources and space are scarcer, and species have to adapt and compete more for survival. This cycle was heartbreaking to me, especially since many people fail to acknowledge how climate change affects biodiversity and the loss of native species.
Throughout my travels, I observed the most inspiring landscapes and views. The top of Mont Blanc and the Mere de Glace were such important destinations on this trip. I was able to experience this with other like-minded individuals, and we all learned and witnessed so much. If I ever have the privilege of taking a trip here again, I will go in a heartbeat.
I'm Vivek or DJ V Zesty and I'm from Fort Mill, SC! I am a junior broadcast journalism major at the University of South Carolina. I love student media and I have met some of my best friends in Garnet Media Group. I am big into music and I love the bass guitar. I enjoy going on walks, being outdoors, and hanging out with friends. I have a massive fear of waterslides but I really love riding rollercoasters. Star Wars movies are the best and I have watched all of them more times than I can count. I really love drinking tea before bed and watching a nice show, one of my favorites is Bojack Horseman. Tune in to my show Zesty Hours every Thursday from 4-5 pm!