Living & Learning in Fairbanks, Alaska

Transcript

Few places in the world are as beautiful and majestic as Alaska. And Fairbanks, in the heart of the state, is no exception. The Chena River flows right through this town with ties to the Gold Rush. Campus sits overlooking the Tanana Valley, right on the edge of the wilderness. But that’s only one reason to love Fairbanks. Let’s meet Nolan, a Performing Arts major who’s from Fairbanks, Alaska. So he’s the perfect person to tell us more about this incredible location. Nolan, please take it away.

– Hello, hello. From a young age, I was always running wild with my love for cross country running and skiing. Here at UAF, it’s no different. I’m still that kid running wild, trying new things. Only now, I’m able to run for UAF. One of the most important parts of UAF for me is the people. Everyone carries a unique story because if you live in Fairbanks, Alaska, you’ve got a good reason why. I know a lot of people, including myself, that are drawn in towards the meditative atmosphere that surrounds Fairbanks. The distant mountains, the quiet nights, the spacious forests. The hill that our campus sits on is called, Troth Yeddha’, which means, “Wild potato hill,” in the Lower Tanana Dena language. Surrounding us are extensive trails like this one, that stretch far beyond the campus and intertwine throughout the entire town. Just from my dorm, I can easily step onto trails that I’ve skied and run on since I was a little lad. UAF is an incredible place for unique travel experiences. Since joining UAF’s Climate Scholars, I’ve had the chance to travel to the Inian Islands off the coast of the Kenai Peninsula for a week long climate change intensive. The culture at UAF brings in a lot of creative and genuine people. As a Film and Performing Arts Major, my peers and I get to learn from a great group of faculty as we begin to hone our skills in directing, acting, writing, and more. This atmosphere is unique to Alaska, and can be unique in your college journey as well. Thank you for your time. Alex? It’s time I pass it back to you, good sir.

– Thank you, Nolan. You are right. As perfect as Fairbanks is, as unique a location and as dynamic as the seasons are, great people are what make the University of Alaska Fairbanks such a special place. Take care.