In the Eco-Design and Construction IMPACT class, we created toolboxes, refinished and retrofitted a van for a food pantry, redesigned spaces on campus using biophilic design principles, and met with architects and an industrial design professor from the Savannah School of the Arts, learning about sustainable strategies. My goal coming into the class was simple: be more productive and hands-on.

But it wasn’t always easy. Initially, I entered this class with no prior experience in woodworking, unaware of the challenges that lay ahead. But, over time, through the countless measuring errors and collaboration with people I had never spoken to, I realized something. I’ve learned that discomfort is part of growth.

The independent setting and creative environment allowed me to become more confident in myself, enabling me to take on challenges head-on. It was hard at first, but it got easier, and I got better.