Travel Far In Your Own Backyard

Transcript

Let’s meet Vera. She has a special hometown connection here. But even with that, she’s always meeting someone new and making discoveries on campus and in Burlington. Her experience living on campus and involvement with club contribute to all that. Vera, we can’t wait for you to guide us around and share your insider’s view.

– Hey, everyone. Growing up in Vermont as a first generation American, I found a lot of love in my town, but I also felt closed in sometimes. I was literally born on campus, at the UVM Medical Center. And growing up I would visit my mom, who’s a faculty member. This meant that after high school I actually wanted to go elsewhere. But as I began to tour colleges, I started to see the incredible opportunities that were right here. As I became a student, I instantly started meeting people from around the world. It surprises some, that more than 70% of UVM students come from outside of Vermont. This has to do with the state’s small size and UVM’s reputation around the country. All students live on campus their first two years. My first semester I lived in the wellness environment, where I made friends who share my interest in the brain science behind health. Wellness is an important theme at UVM. We sometimes study and eat together, especially at one of my favorite campus spots. And there are many options, not to mention all of the places to eat in Burlington. I also got involved in Alianza Latinx. Our annual event, Comida Para La Gente, is an all out celebration of food and culture. No matter how long I’ve lived here I feel such gratitude every day for Vermont scenery, watching sunsets over Lake Champlain or going on a hike up Camel’s Hump never gets old. Festivals like Jazz Fest, Art Hop and the farmer’s market happen year round. As a local, I love to share Burlington, Vermont with others. And no matter where I end up, I’m sure I will come back and visit my incredible university and home base. That’s my story. Back to you Alex.

– Thanks Vera, for a great introduction to Burlington. This is an incredible town and beloved community to families, businesses and a prime destination for visitors from around the world. Did you know this is where household names like Ben and Jerry’s and Burton Snowboards got their start? Lucky you to have deep roots here. Take care.