Cucumbers, tomatoes, squash, kale—basically a full grocery list I planted, grew, and harvested last summer for the Bearcat Pantry, which supports UC students and staff facing food insecurity. I had zero gardening experience but a lot of excitement, and somehow, that was enough. This semester really tested me- my living situation was draining and damaging, and studio was at an all time high intensity. The garden really helped to ground me and support me through this. 
Architecture school is often abstract- drawings, models, critique. But gardening was tangible. I planted things, watched them grow, and knew they’d become someone’s next meal. That physical, visible impact grounded me. I wasn’t just helping feed people- but helping to build structure for the newly founded garden program. 
This experience taught me that impact isn’t always flashy. Sometimes it’s 7AM watering sessions, pulling weeds, or just showing up. I left that garden stronger, more aligned with my values, and deeply aware that growth (the garden's and my own) takes time, care, and sunlight.