Walking through water, getting through life - ENVT 350

 

    This semester I'm taking ENVT 350: Environmental Methods of Investigation, and I'm not gonna lie, it's one of the most interesting classes I've had at PLU. 

    The class is all about the Chamber-Clover Creek Watershed, which is basically the local watershed around campus. But it's not just one subject, we look at it from different  angles like biology, chemistry, geoscience, history, and even religion. At first I didn't expect that mix, but it actually makes everything make more sense because you start to see how everything connects. 

    

What makes this class really different hough is that we don't just sit in a classroom. We actually go outside for our labs. Like, we visit real sites in the watershed, collect data, measure water quality indicators, and just observe what's going on the environment. it lowkey feels more real than any lab I've been before because you're literally in it, not just learning about it. 

    Also, this class has been around for a long time. Students have been collecting data on this watershed for over 25 years. And in 2022, all that work turned into a digital exhibit with the tacoma Public Library, where students shared their research with the community. 

  Not gonna lie, this class also helped me a lot during a time when I was going through some stuff. Getting outside, being in nature, and just spending time with my classmates made a big differences for me. it reminded me of my high school days when we used to go on week-long field trips, and those were the times that brought everyone so close together. That's actually where I met some of my lifelong best friends, and those memories are still some of the most meaningful to me. 

Photo courtesy of the PLU Archives

        This class kind of gave me that same feeling again. Even though it's technically a lab, it doesn't feel like a typical bio or chem lab where you'd stuck in one place for hours. Instead, we're walking around, going into the water, measuring things, looking at a different plants and species, and just enjoying the moment together. It feels like real quality time with people outside of a normal classroom setting. 

  I think this class is something I'll remember and miss after I graduate. As an Environmental Studies student, this experience felt really wholesome to me, one of those small but meaningful moments that stays with you. 

~Nobi Altanzul. 

Healing Through Traditional Mongolian Medicine

     Last summer honestly became one of the biggest turning points in my healing journey. As an international student from Mongolia, I wasn't just carrying school stress, I was also carrying physical pain and mental pressure that I had gotten so used to, I stopped even questioning it. 

    The main reason I decided to seek treatment was my chronic lower back pain. it actually started in high school when i was training really intensely for an Asian-level dance competition. During practice, I injured my lower back. the competition ended, life moved on... but the pain didn't. It would get worse during stressful times or when I pushed myself too hard physically which as a student, happens a lot. 

    After a really challenging year, I decided to spend part of my summer staying at a traditional Mongolian medicine hospital for inpatient treatment, And from the moment I got there something felt different. The hospital didn't feel rushed or cold. It felt pretty calm. Clean. Grounded. There was a strong Buddhist presence in the atmosphere, not in a loud way, but in a peaceful, subtle way. Everything moved slowly and intentionally. It reminded me that healing isn't something you rush. it takes time. 

    One of the first things they did was pulse diagnosis. If you're not familiar with traditional Mongolian medicine, this might sound unusual. Instead of immediately doing scans or machines, the doctor carefully checked my pulse at my wrist. They paid attention to the rhythm, depth, strength, and tiny details tha most of us would never notice. My treatment included full-body traditional massage to release deep tension. I also had heat therapy placed on specific points like my ears, hands, feet, and back. Warm herbal heat was used to stimulate circulation and help my body recover naturally. 

    I was prescribed herbal medicine for three months. Everything was plant-based and natural, which gave me comfort. it felt gentle, not aggressive. It didn't feel like i was fighting my body, it felt like I was supporting it. 

    Even the food was parrt of the healing. The hospital served traditional Mongolian meals like nourishing soups, meat and vegetable dishes, warm and filling food. It reminded me that healing isn't just about medicine. It's about care. It's about being nourished. 

    When I went back for a follow-up during winter break, my doctor told me something that really stuck with me. They said my constant worrying and overthinking about the future was putting unnecessary strain on my heart. I was told to be more calm, patient, and emotionally balanced. 

And that hit me. 

    As students, we're always thinking about the next thing. Grades. Internships. Careers. time. Expectations. We're constantly in "what's next?" mode. But living in that constant stress slowly disconnects you from yourself. What I learned from this experience is simple: 

Taking care of yourself is not optional 

Rest is not laziness

Peace is not weakness. 

    You don't have to earn the right to slow down. Traditional Mongolian medicine, deeply influenced by Buddhist values, taught me that healing isn't just about fixing pain. it's about learning how to live gently with yourself. Finding small moments of calm and joy is not selfish, it's necessary. 

And honestly, wherever you come from, your culture probably holds wisdom that you might need to return to. 

-Nobi Altanzul 

For Two Hours, We Went Home

     This year our small Mongolian student team hosted a Mongolia Event at PLU, and it honestly became one of the best memories we've made on campus. We wanted to bring a little piece of home to PLU, the food, the culture, the music, the energy, and after about a month of planning, preparing, and a little bit of chaos, we made it happen. 

Preparing for the event was almost as fun as the event itself. Our team met every week, and every time we got together, we somehow ended up laughing pretty hard like we are having our best time in life. Practicing our dance performance was especially hilarious, half the time we forgot the moves or made up our own, but those moments became some of our favorite memories. We also spent a lot of time building the photo booth and creating Mongolian bookmarks with traditional script on the front and English translations ont e back. What started as  "let's just make these quickly" turned into a whole team bonding moments with jokes, music, and random conversations. Even figuring out our games like bingo, the treasure hunt, and freeze dance took forever, but it was all part of the fun. 

When the day finally came, we were all running around getting everything set up, but the excitement made it all feel worth it. Once people started walking in, the whole room came alive. Our bookmarks ended up being surprisingly favorite, people kept picking them up and saying how cool the Mongolian script looked. The food tasted exactly like home, which gave us the bingo, the treasure hunt, and freeze dance had everyone laughing and participating. The phot booth also turned out better than we expected and helped people capture sweet memories with their friends. 

The whole night gave us this warm, cozy feeling almost like we went back home to Mongolia for at least two hour. We really hope guests felt the same aura and got a small taste of our culture. It was such a heartwarming moment to see people enjoying the atmosphere, learning something new, and just having fun. 

Overall, the event was a big success, and it meant a lot to us to share our culture with the PLU community. We're so proud of what we created, and we're hoping to host an even bigger and better Mongolia Event next year. 

- Nobita, ISS intern

My Summer at MECC

 This summer, I had the amazing opportunity to work at the Ministry of Environment & Climate Change (MECC) in Mongolia for two weeks. Even though it was short, it honestly felt like such a big experience in my life, and I learned so much in such a short time. 

COP17 Prep

    A lot of my work is connected to COP17, the big global climate conference coming up. I got to see how Mongolia is preparing and how our county's policies need to match with international ones. It was so interesting to see how "big global talks" actually start in small office meetings, people writing, discussing, and comparing policies to make sure Mongolia has a strong voice on the world stage. 

Work Environment 

    The work environment at MECC was really inspiring. Everyone was so focused but also collaborative. I saw how different departments came together, shared ideas, and worked as a team. Even as a short-time intern, I felt very welcomed, encouraged to ask questions, and included in conversations. That made me realize how important teamwork is when it comes to solving environmental challenges. 

    One thing that stood out to me was how much the team compared policies; they were always looking at how Mongolia's strategies line up with other countries and their own long term goals. It made me realize how connected the world really is. Mongolia has its own challenges like desertification and extreme winters, but we can still learn from other nations and also share our experience with them. 

         

                                    

How It Changed Me 

    These two weeks were life changing for me. I saw how environmental policy is not just about science, it's also about people, communication, and working together for the future. Being part of discussions linked to COP17 made me feel like I was contributing, even in a small way, to something so important. I left MECC feeling motivated, inspired, and more certain about the path I want to take. It gave me confidence that I can connect my Environmental Studies and Business background to real-world impact, whether in Mongolia or Internationally. 

    This experience reminded me that even short moments can shape who we are. For me, my time at MECC wasn't just an internship, it was a spark that made me even more excited for the future I want to build. 

 

 - Nobita

Super chill trip to Spokane

Hey everyone, it’s Nobita here!

How's it going? I hope you all had a super relaxing and fun spring break! I wanted to hop on here and share a little story about my trip to Spokane to visit my brother over the break.

It was 6 hour bus ride, and honestly? SO worth it. The route was suer scenic, think snowy mountain peaks, golden sunny farm fields, and misty forests straight out of a moody movie. I'm such a big fan for road trips. There's just something magical about staring out the window with your favorite playlist on, pretending you're the main character in a music video, lol. ✨

Even though a flight would've taken around 2 hours, I chose the bus for two reasons; it's budget friendly ( hello, college student life!) and the views are unbeatable.

When I arrived, my brother took me straight to downtown Spokane, where we had an amazing dinner and wandered through Riverfront Park. There was this powerful Native American statue there that really stuck with me, it felt meaningful and beautiful at the same time.

My brother's also a low-key chef. Seriously, he's so good at cooking. On my first evening, he whipped up steak with creamy mashed potatoes, and I was in food heaven. We also had the cutest sushi dinner at a place called Sushi Blossom, cozy vibes, packed crowd, and absolutely delicious rolls. If you're ever in Spokane, go there. We also hit up a super authentic Korean spot near his place that felt like a warm hug in food form. 🍣🍲

But more than the food and views, the best part was just being with my brother. I'm really proud of him. He's doing his thing, chasing what he loves, and being a responsible big bro while at it. It made me appreciate him even more. I can't imagine going through these confusing, chaotic early adulthood years without him by my side. So, through this post, thank you bro. Love you always. 💖

Overall, this trip was just what I needed. Relaxing, refreshing, and full of good vibes. Sometimes, taking a break, giving yourself that space to breathe, is the best way to come back stronger. It reminded me how important it is to reset, take care of yourself, and move forward with purpose.

I hope your spring break was just as lovely and that the rest of your semester goes smooth and sunny. 🌞 summer break is callinggg, and I know we're all counting down the days!

Stay hydrated, stay happy

Nobita A.

 

Mongolian Lunar new year

 What is the Lunar New Year?

    Mongolia celebrates Lunar New Year, also known as “Tsagaan Sar”, following the Mongolian lunisolar calendar. Tsagaan Sar translates to “White Moon” and marks the beginning of a new year with the rising of the new moon.  The night before Tsagaan Sar is called “Bituun”, a time when families gather to ensure that the coming year is filled with prosperity. Tradition encourages people to eat as much as possible during Bituun, symbolizing abundance and preventing hunger in the year ahead.

How We Celebrate?

    On the first day of the new year, everyone wakes up early and wears their best new clothes. Men climb the nearest hill to watch the first sunrise, while women prepare milk tea to offer to the earth as a sign of gratitude.  

    Visiting relatives is a key part of Tsagaan Sar, and some people travel long distances across the country to reunite with family. That’s why this celebration lasts almost a week. In my opinion, Tsagaan Sar is more than just a holiday, it’s a meaningful time to strengthen family connections and learn more about our lineage. It’s a warm, heartening celebration where we bond, feast, and exchange gifts as a token of gratitude for each other’s presence.  

    During this time, cadets and younger family members greet their elders with a special gesture of respect, placing their arms under the elder’s arms while embracing. Everywhere you go, Mongolians are moving, visiting, and sharing well wishes with friends and family.  

Traditional Clothing: The Deel

        The deel is Mongolia's traditional attire, dating back to the 3rd century BC. It's unique and beautiful garment that reflects our rich heritage. There are distinct differences in how men and women wear deel, with specific accessories for each. While many people in the cities no longer wear it daily, nomadic communities in the countryside still proudly wear the deel as part of their everyday lives. However, during Tsagaan sar, everyone dress in their finest deels t honor the occasion.

The Festive Feast

The Great Meat (Uuts/Uvchuu) - “Mutton” is the star of the table. Every household prepares a large portion of lamb or sheep, symbolizing strength, prosperity, and tradition. Mongolians have been meat lovers for centuries, and this dish is one of the most defining aspects of our cuisine.

Buuz (Dumplings)– These steamed dumplings are a must-have for Tsagaan Sar and are enjoyed in almost every home.

Dairy Products– Mongolian cuisine is heavily influenced by dairy, and Tsagaan Sar features a variety of fermented and fresh dairy products.

Ul Boov – This is a traditional biscuit made from flour, stacked in a specific pyramid or square pattern. The way it is stacked holds different meanings and represents prosperity for the family.

Airag – Fermented mare’s milk, a naturally carbonated and slightly alcoholic beverage. Despite its mild alcohol content, even children can drink it. It symbolizes abundance, hospitality, and celebration.  

Tsagaan Sar is more than just a holiday, it’s a time for family, tradition, and cultural pride. It brings Mongolians together, whether they are in the countryside or the city, young or old. The traditions, clothing, food, and rituals all come together to create a celebration that is deeply rooted in our history, values, and identity.  
For us, Tsagaan Sar is a time to reflect on the past, embrace the present, and welcome the future with hope and gratitude.

See yall next time,

Nobita A.

Chillin' in Chicago: My Winter Break Adventure

Hi, everyone! I’m Nobita. Welcome to my travel blog. I hope you guys are having an amazing winter break. 

    

Chicago is a dynamic city with a unique blend of
history, culture, and community. Whether exploring its architectural wonders, savoring deep-dish pizza, enjoying live music, or cheering for a local sports team, there’s always something to experience in the Windy City.

 

📍360🌃

The 360 Chicago building, formerly known as the John Hancock Center, is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Chicago. Located in the Gold Coast neighborhood, it stands tall at 1,128 feet (344 meters) and was among the tallest buildings in the world when it was completed in 1970. When I was on the deck there was the room where you can feel the wind on that floor which made me feel so relaxed and it felt like therapy and so good.

📍Millennium Park Ice Rink 

Sliding on the cold ice is one of my favorite winter activities—it’s always so much fun! We had to make a reservation first, but it was already packed and sold out, even though it was just Monday. That shows how popular this ice skating place is!  

When I finally got on the ice, it felt amazing. It brought back so many nostalgic memories from my childhood. I remembered all the winter days I spent skating with friends, laughing, and trying not to fall. The cold air, the sound of skates on the ice, and the joy of gliding around made me feel like a kid again. It was such a special moment, and I’m so glad I got the chance to skate here.

📍Art Institute of Chicago🎨

I have a deep appreciation for arts and crafts. If I had the opportunity, I would love to spend an entire day exploring all the incredible artworks and creations at the institute. However, with more than a hundred thousand pieces on display, even a full day wouldn’t be enough to take it all in. Nevertheless, visiting the institute was an amazing experience. In my opinion, it’s the perfect place for a first date. Personally, I would also come here whenever I’m feeling down and in need of some quality time for myself. One of my favorite exhibits was the “Thorne Miniature Rooms.”  

                               

I started my winter break in the beautiful city of Chicago, and it was such a great experience. The city is full of energy, with so much to see and do. Next, I’ll be traveling to Arlington, Virginia, and I’m excited to see what’s waiting for me there. Stay tuned for more updates from my journey. Until then, I hope you all have an amazing day! 🌟

~Nobita.

My experience in the PLU Dance team

 

Hi all, Nobita here. I hope you are all having a good day. I know finals week is coming, but WE GOT THIS, LUTES! Today I wanted to talk about my experience in the PLU Dance team.

How I first Joined ~

 

There would be an audition for everyone who wants to be in the dance team. Our captains mainly seek for someone who really wants to dance and enjoys dancing with passion and positivity. I had my first audition freshman year. I was so nervous and excited for the audition because I had no idea how would it be. I remember there were around 20 people for the audition and 3 captains who ere the judges and one of them taught us 1 min of choreography. I personally think that the audition was not that hard. Two days later the result came up and I was so happy to see that I got into the dance team. On my first day of dance practice, our dance coach told me that I was the first international student in the dance team which made me feel proud of myself. 

PLU Dance team - https://www.plu.edu/admission/blog/meet-the-plu-dance-team/

My passion for dance ~

I started dancing when I was 7 years old and have loved it ever since. I had my own dance team in my middle school and I was in the high school dance team. I used to go to lots of competitions in my country and also overseas with my team in high school. I used to think I would stop dancing once I got into college but apparently that didn't happen. I was so happy when I found out that PLU has dance team. Now I think getting into the dance team was my best decision I've ever made since I got into college. I felt homesick and lonely when I arrived, but dancing kept me so busy that I forgot about those feelings. I'll never loose my passion for dance and never forget hoe it built who I am right now. 

Now it's been 2 years since I got into the dance team. I've learned a lot from my team. We had 2 hours of practice for 3 days every week. Dance team is where I can be myself and let my stress out through all the sweat from dancing for 2 hours. It is actually so fun to be in the dance team. We had so much fun every practice and our team members are actually so kind and understanding people. We always support and take care of each other. there was a time when I was feeling so homesick and having a bad day, and I told that to my senior member and she took me to Target and we had Chick-fil-a which is my favorite fast food place. We had so much fun walking around target and laughing loudly. At that time I realized that if I wasn't in the dance team I would never meet her and we would never be going out like this. I cherish all the memories that we made together. Being in the dance team taught me time management, responsibility, team work, and respect. 

Group bonding activity ~

We went to the pumpkin patch together which I heard it is one of the dance team tradition. We had BIG corndogs, caramel apple, and took some cute pictures together. It was my first time going to pumpkin patch, which was very interesting. Because, I've never seen that much pumpkin and different types of pumpkins. I really liked the animal farm where there were so many cute bunnies, pigs, goats, and other birds. It was the one of the moments were our team members shared big laughter together. 




    

Halloween ~   

Winter Showcase~

Around the end of November or beginning of December, we would have a Winter Showcase where we show our family and friends what we've learned throughout fall semester. Last year we performed around 10 dances, which I was in  five of them. This year we had 12 performances. We would practice every day for a week for the showcase, usually preparing lightning, music, costumes, hair and makeup, and let ourselves get used to dance without mirror on the stage. I would say this week is the hardest week for of being in the dance, but also the most memorable because we are all together working on one big project. We had so much fun doing it but also all of us were so nervous at the same time to make the dance pieces look beautiful and make the showcase perfect. I am so proud of all the dance team members. 

The dance team also has a spring term during which you can audition. We have a spring showcase with theater team. 

More opportunities at PLU~

 PLU has lots of other clubs and sport teams that you can join. I realized the benefit of doing something off school is really important. And the great part is that you can do whatever you want. 

https://www.plu.edu/admission-first-year/campus-life/clubs-organizations/

See guys next time,

- Nobita