The Views
Aruba offered sights unlike anything I have ever seen.
Shot on Google Pixel 6 Pro.
South Carolina Honors College
October 2023
Created by Luke Jannazzo
This trip to Aruba was my first time leaving the country, and it enabled me to get a passport and experience international flight for the first time. I've always dreamed of traveling abroad, and this experience only affirmed for me that I am very passionate about seeing the world and visiting as many countries and parts of the planet as possible. Every small detail of how life is different there compared to home was acutely interesting to me. For example, I was fascinated by how the roads use primarily traffic circles in favor of traffic lights and yield signs instead of stop signs all throughout the island. There were also strange similarities, such as how the cash registers in the grocery stores used the same software as the store I worked at in high school. I am excited to see more of the diverse and interesting world in my future.
On the trip we had the chance to work with University of Aruba students to fortify the beaches of De Palm Island by planting mangrove trees. These sprouts (pictured) will grow into trees whose roots will fortify the island's shoreline against rising sea levels and other natural threats to its continued existence.
Something I am passionate about in my future is promoting sustainability in the computer hardware industry that I wish to enter as a professional. The philosophy of sustainability is present everywhere in Aruba, from the water treatment plant to the circular economy, and in initiatives such as our mangrove planting project. This experience was a great example of the resourceful thinking that is crucial for sustainable development in all areas.
