I grew up on Peaks Island and recently moved to Deer Isle to work as an Island Institute Fellow to support Deer Isle & Stonington’s Adult & Community Education. I’m helping people with career transitions and assisting those whose jobs, like lobstermen, require new technological skills for tracking and reporting. As I unpacked boxes in my new apartment, I saw the little trail of memories that have led me to this moment and to become an Island Institute Fellow. The bracelet on my bedside table that I got at the end of a summer camp trip in 2017, the topography map of the North Cascades that I got in 2019, the photos on the wall of the Grand Canyon and Colorado River showing adventures I took with college friends—these little mementos help to tell my story and my connections to Island Institute. As I have been entering this new space and time in my life, I have been reflecting on this connection and how it has helped to shape my young adult life.
My journey with Island Institute started in 2017, when I received the Geiger scholarship to go on a European backpacking trip with an organization called Apogee Adventures. This scholarship allowed me to go backpacking for the first time in my life in what is, to this day, one of the most beautiful places that I have ever been. Returning to Peaks Island after that trip, I wanted to bring some of the joy that I felt on those trails to my home community. I started a program with the elementary school on the island that worked to get kids out on the trails and teach them about the importance of trail maintenance and Leave No Trace principles. This program was a springboard into my high school outing club and ignited my passion for outdoor education.
Returning to Peaks Island after that trip, I wanted to bring some of the joy that I felt on those trails to my home community.
A second Geiger Scholarship in 2019 landed me in the North Cascade Wilderness with the National Outdoor Leadership School (NOLS) for a 30-day backpacking course, deepening my experience and knowledge of outdoor education and leadership. Living outside for a month was life-changing in so many ways. I learned lessons like there is always more space in your pack, and that a hot meal cooked with friends in a beautiful place can fix almost any problem, at least a little bit. I learned I could push through challenging and uncomfortable situations while still finding the beauty in it. That particular lesson resurfaced again and again, but it stuck with me most when I slid 40 feet down a snowy pass and had to climb back up. Despite the fear and frustration, I laughed, shook off the snow, and rejoined my group above. Now, when I recall that moment, I remember the stunning views from below and the smiling faces waiting for me. These lessons, memories, and experiences were all made possible because of the opportunities that Island Institute has given to me and many other island kids who want to explore the world around us.
I learned I could push through challenging and uncomfortable situations while still finding the beauty in it.
Island Institute also supported me through the MAP program and the Otter Scholarship, helping me transition from high school to college. These programs provided both financial assistance and a community of island students facing similar decisions. This group became a treasured support system that guided me through the transition and later allowed me to mentor others. It gave me the courage to attend Colorado College, where I cherished four years in Colorado Springs, building friendships and a new community.
Now I’m beginning my latest adventure as an Island Institute Fellow. Sitting in my new favorite coffee shop, looking out at the bustling harbor, I feel immense gratitude for the journey Island Institute has helped make possible—from the Swiss Alps and snowy passes in the Cascades to the beautiful view of Tava Mountain in college, and now this vibrant coastal community. Island Institute has supported me every step of the way, and I look forward to giving back to the islands that have shaped me.
Lucia Daranyi is an William Bingham Fellow.
