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Student Voices
Charles Walker
- Hometown: Ashland, OR
- Major: It is not created yet, but it will be a Fairhaven Interdisciplinary Major, most likely Political Economy in Latin America
Why Western?
I came to Western because of Fairhaven College, but was happy to have the intimacy of Fairhaven combined with the many opportunities of Western.
A Nice Balance
I honestly have become increasingly impressed with Western. Because my main cause for coming to Western was to attend Fairhaven, I really didn't research into Western as much as I should have. Luckily, I have been extremely happy with my experience here. The combination of my Western classes and the more alternative teachings of Fairhaven really allow me to focus my beliefs and arguments.
Open Dialogue
Towards the end of my first term at Western, one of my professors invited the class over to her house on Lummi Island. We harvested potatoes and picked apples for the local food bank and then met with Charles Anholt, an economics professor at Western who used to work for the World Bank. The stories and opinions he shared completely contradicted what we had been learning throughout the term, which I found intriguing. I later interviewed him for a research paper. It is this openness toward dialogue that makes studying at Western and Fairhaven so powerful.
Invaluable Mentors
Niall O'Murchu, Larry Estrada, and John Tuxill have been my most influential professors at Western. They have been the guiding forces behind my educational path.
Examining Inequality
Niall O'Murchu has taught me to think critically about the causes of unequal distributions of power and wealth. He has pushed me to move beyond blanket statements and instead articulate the specific factors that contribute to inequality around the world.
A Shared Passion
Larry Estrada taught me about retelling American history from the point of view of minorities rather than Anglos. His constant support of my passion for Latin American studies is an invaluable gift. He has encouraged me to pursue a master's degree, which has broadened my concept of the future beyond anything I had ever imagined.
Understanding Sutainability
John Tuxill taught me about the symbiotic relationship between humankind and nature. His vast experience in the field and immense intellect has greatly contributed to my knowledge of the true meaning of sustainability.
Outside the Classroom
I love the outdoors and work at the Outdoor Center here at Western. I have recently become involved in a variety of social issues groups within Bellingham and Western, and am continually impressed by the constant activism here in Bellingham. I am also currently making a documentary about the Bellingham chapter of Iraq Veterans against the War.
Life in Bellingham
I enjoy biking to Boulevard Park, hiking up to Oyster Dome and being able to see all the San Juan Islands, and going to the farmer's market downtown. Bellingham is beautiful when the sun is out and the rain makes you appreciate the sun.