热点大瓜

I grew up in the City of Buffalo and spent a lot of time bopping around the Elmwood Village.

I love to paint and have been trying new mediums like watercolor and gouache lately. Anything that helps me get out of my head and create something tangible is a win for me. I’m also a big fan of seasonal sports like curling. It’s great for getting through long Buffalo winters.

I grew up with frequent PSAs about turning the lights off when you leave a room and turning the water off while you brush your teeth. That certainly set up in my mind the idea that small steps can lead to larger ones, and I really take to heart the idea of leaving something better than how I found it. Of course, that’s a monumental task when I think about it on the scale of the global climate crisis. So, it’s important to me to gather as much information as I can about sustainable ways to navigate my everyday life and connect with my neighborhood/district/city etc. to feel the impact of my choices. 

Some things I’m doing right now around sustainability have to do with integrating more seasonal, locally grown, foods into my meals, taking advantage of composting collection programs, and fixing or mending clothes/ furniture when possible. This last one I’m just dipping my toe into now with some online videos but I’m excited for what’s to come!

Knowledge is power for me and gives me the confidence to try new, and everyday things, through the lens of sustainability. Plus, the power of other people helps me a lot. Having conversations with friends, family, and neighbors about their sustainable habits makes it all feel more community-oriented, instead of something I think about on my own. 

I’m excited to expand my understanding of sustainability of course, but I’m even more thrilled to be able to do that on a university campus. The energy of students, faculty, and staff at a large university like UB is infectious and there’s so much room to learn and grow. The potential feels limitless.

Olivia can be contacted via email at oliviamc@buffalo.edu