Alison Mangels (she/her)
Interests
Anything outdoors, rock climbing, cooking for friends, learning new instruments, arts and crafts.
Major
Environmental Studies - Education & Eco-Social Justice Emphasis
Minor in Honors Interdisciplinary Studies
Hometown
Pullman, WA
What I like most about Bellingham
I have yet to be bored in Bellingham. Being surrounded by the North Cascade mountains, the Salish Sea, forests, and lakes means there is ALWAYS something to do. Even if you’re not a very outdoorsy person, there are plenty of beaches to lounge on, trees to hammock in, and interurban trails to stroll. If even that is too outdoors for you, that’s okay! We have an abundant food scene in Bellingham, all the best places being local. I am always looking for new places to explore and have yet to worry about finding something to do.
An experience or class at Western that made me go "Wow!"
I had the opportunity to study abroad with the WWU Honors College fall quarter my freshman year. I, along with a cohort of 25 and 3 honors professors, went to Greece for a little over two weeks and it was an incredible experience. From bonding with fellow classmates, to exploring the diverse adventures Greece has to offer, and easing into college life, I really learned what I value in a community and connected with experimental learning styles.
My advice for incoming or prospective students
Have an open mind and be willing to grow and change! Western tends to have a reputation of being only outdoorsy or artsy people but this is totally not true. There is a place for everyone here and through my time these last two years I have grown to appreciate the variety of people and the lessons I have learned from them!