Feature of a Student’s Campus Involvement

Gardening for Good

Clothes caked in dirt and a freshly plucked beat in his hand, Landon Barnes leaves the Grove Garden for the day feeling accomplished and excited for next week’s work. Landon has been an active volunteer at the garden since the Fall term of his freshman year when he was forced to attend a meeting for a class assignment. He fell in love with this small student-run organization and has worked tirelessly to help it grow 15 times the size it once was. 

The Grove Garden has always been Landon’s safe space and escape. He became more dedicated to his sanctuary when he was promoted to a lead. This happened from standing out for his determination to set this garden apart by prioritizing sustainability. Fellow lead and friend of Landon, Josephine Paik said, “The garden has grown so much as a program and community over the past year and I’m so happy to have worked together with him on it!” He currently is striving to grow garden production and student participation in the face of possible destruction. With the University of Oregon expanding student housing, “now it’s like we’re under threat and I want to make sure this garden doesn’t leave me because it’s become a part of my personality and it’s a big part of who I am,” Landon said. Despite the possible relocation of the garden, Landon stays open-minded. He focuses on growing a club that once had four consistent volunteers and now brings in around 60 students weekly to weed the beds, plant crops, and increase garden accessibility. 

Landon envisions a bright future for the Grove Garden. Besides fighting for the garden to stay in its current location, he is helping connect them with the University of Oregon Produce Drop to donate their ethically grown crops to those in need and combat food insecurity. He is working towards more funding from the Associated Students of the University of Oregon to keep the garden afloat and allow it to keep growing no matter the location. Landon is confident in the Grove Garden’s ability to not only continue to contribute to the UO community, but thrive under uncertain times.

Sample Travel Blog

Find a New Connection with Nature in San Diego

I’ve been living in San Diego for seven years, and before that I visited every summer. Sometimes when I feel disconnected from nature, I like to plan a day to get myself more in touch with my roots. These are my favorite go-to spots to enjoy the tranquil waves crashing, the palm trees blowing in the wind and the colorful sunsets. 

Rise and Shine with an Ocean View at Naked Cafe

When I want to get brunch and enjoy gorgeous views, I always opt for Naked Cafe. Right in the heart of Solana Beach, this half indoor, half outdoor cafe looks right out to the ocean. My favorite thing to get is the Golden Goddess Salad topped with the freshest mango and a sweet pomegranate vinaigrette. This cafe is known for its teas like the Oceans Blue Latte with blue Spirulina and butterfly pea flower. I would definitely recommend indulging in this earthy drink.

Hike to the Best View in Town

I love hiking the Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve. Although the beginning is a trek up a steep hill, it’s all worth it when I get to the top. The trail looks out over the ocean, and I don’t think I understood true peace before observing the sea from this view. As the trail continues, it leads down stairs and ends up on the beach where I feel the sand squish under my feet and smell the salt tangle into my hair.

Shop Local Gifts from the Earth

Another favorite spot of mine that I feel connected to nature in a more spiritual way is at a local crystal shop. Soulscape sells any crystal you can think of along with tarot cards, journals, and my favorite, soothing, white sage incense that smell like laying in a field. I feel truly at peace stepping into this store and picking from an array of shiny, tumbled crystals and rough, raw crystals in every color.

Whenever I come home from college, I always have these three locations on my must-do list. San Diego brings me so much peace by connecting me with the earth, even if it’s often seen as an urban landscape. One fun way you can single out nature is through the kayaking tours in La Jolla, but watch out for the sharks!

Sample Breaking News Story 

New Protection for College Student’s Pets

Eugene, Ore. —

Greenhill Humane Society and Eugene Animal Services have announced Animal Alive, a new resource that was launched to protect the pets owned by college students. This is in direct response to an increase in neglect and abuse from students. 

Tonya Grant, Greenhill’s executive director, shared her intent of improving the quality of life for pets and students. Grant said “Nine cases of dog cruelty perpetrated by UO students have been reported since October 1.” This has increased from a total of five last year.

In late February, a student left her yellow labrador in her apartment when she went to Seattle to see family. After numerous complaints from neighbors, the police entered and found the dog malnourished. 

John Kendall, the marketing director of Animal Services, said “It appeared the dog had not eaten anything for more than 72 hours.” This, however, wasn’t an isolated event and it has been noted that there has been an increase in cases of dogs left unattended.

Animal Alive plans on helping pet owners find caregivers for when they leave for a short period of time. They also plan on providing free training sessions for students on how to take care of animals as well as a hotline where citizens can report possible animal cruelty. 

Clara Jones, a Eugene citizen living in a building with college students, said she's seen “Students come home after a day of classes or late because they went to a party, and they forget to feed their dogs.” 

Other students and citizens came forward sharing similar stories of animals being mistreated. Jeff Sawyer, a cat owner and student, seemed surprised by the reports discussed and expressed how he felt he had to attend the conference. He said he couldn’t imagine someone harming pets.

Grant concluded the conference on Thursday seeming hopeful when she said the news of Animal Alive is "the news that unites all of us in this community, news that brings us together.” 

Sample PSA 

How College Students can Prepare for the Big Earthquake

Oregon Office of Emergency Management

Imagine you’re studying in your room for your next midterm and an earthquake hits. You may not know what to do, but you can prepare now with an emergency kit. Scientists predict the Cascadia earthquake will occur within 50 years. Whether you live in a dorm, a sorority/ fraternity, or an apartment, you should put together supplies. You can store these items in a bin or backpack in a place you will remember. Make sure this is easily accessible and a place your roommates are aware of. Consider storing water and nonperishable food to last three days per person. It is suggested to have a radio so you can get constant earthquake and accident updates. Having your phone and a backup battery will keep you connected and let you get help. Don’t let the earthquake rock your education!

For more information go to oregon.gov/oem.