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How much trash have you collected in a single day? Whether it was one pound, twenty pounds, or anything in between, few come close to gathering the amount of trash the faculty and students from the Honors Programs at 91��Ƶר�� College and Frederick Community College (FCC) gathered during our annual stream cleaning event in Willowdale Park. By the end of the event, 1300 pounds of trash was piled high enough to tower over the group. Sidney Brinkman, a first-year student, shared her experience with us.

Brinkman began the event slightly nervous about meeting new people. However, her anxiety was swiftly replaced with enjoyment as she worked alongside her peers from 91��Ƶר�� College and FCC. People from the community also began helping when they saw the group’s efforts! She says that the most memorable part of the experience was continuously trying to stay upright in the stream while picking up trash. She especially enjoyed removing a shopping cart from the water.

The group was rewarded at the end of their challenging work physically by a cookout and emotionally by seeing the difference they made when they worked together. Brinkman noted that while she was disappointed by the amount of trash present in the stream, she felt refreshed after working so hard and was reminded that when we unite over a common cause, we can make much more progress than we could alone. Brinkman had this to say as some parting advice: “It may be difficult to branch out, but don’t be afraid to attend events and meet new people.”

In short, everyone had a wonderful time meeting new people and making a difference in the Frederick community. The Honors Program not only helps students grow academically. It also gives them a sense of community and opportunities for character building. This event is an excellent example of just this.