Read this story about my interview with Alan Contreras, an Oregon-based author who attended the University of Oregon and has now published several books about different native birds. This was a valuable experience in learning how to interview a stranger.

View this architecture research project I completed on Alvar Alto’s Villa Mairea, including the symbolism behind each design decision and the significance of each element. This project challenged me to dive deeper into a subject I knew little about.

Read this hypothetical blog post I wrote about Sutter Creek, California for my “Writing for Communicators” class. This blog post had a strict word limit, forcing me to be conscious of my word choice and execution.

Sutter Creek – Unwind and Explore this Small Town

By Kenzie Gallagher

The door creaked as I stepped outside onto Main Street. I took in the 19th-century buildings and the sweet smell of the nearby vineyards. I smiled. I’ve been visiting Sutter Creek, California, a sleepy town an hour outside of Sacramento, every year since I could walk. Each time I leave, I find myself wondering when I can come back. Take a trip and discover an opportunity to do nothing. Here are three places in Sutter Creek that offer the chance to unplug and relax.

Sutter Creek Ice Cream Emporium – Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth

The Ice Cream Emporium is the place to be on a sunny day. People chat quietly, reclined in wicker chairs adorned by decorative cushions. With flavors that range from freshly made coffee to rainbow sorbet, there is something for everyone. My go-to is a heaping scoop of mint chocolate chip in a hand-crafted waffle cone. After you grab your cone, explore the family-owned shops lining the street.

The Music Box Company – Discover a Singing Souvenir

The Music Box Company is where you buy memories. They have hundreds of music boxes lining the shelves split by narrow walkways. From tiny, Disney-themed trinkets to enormous, vintage-carved boxes, you’re sure to encounter a souvenir that you’ll cherish forever. The redhead princess I got when I was seven still sits on my bedroom shelf waiting to play a lullaby. 

Knight Foundry – Explore the Rich History of the Gold Rush

To preserve the memory of the Gold Rush, residents reopened America’s last water-powered foundry and machine shop. The foundry is filled with restored water wheels and casting molds from the mid-1900s. They even offer beginner blacksmith classes. I never knew crafting metal ornaments could be so rewarding. With so many interesting things to experience, it is definitely worth visiting. 

Planted in the middle of Amador County, Sutter Creek is the perfect getaway to blow off some steam. Everyone you encounter will give you a warm smile. There is enough to keep you busy, but not too much that you will be stressed out. I treasure the memories I have of sitting with my grandparents by the creek and savoring our ice cream. Not only will you find relaxation, but you’ll make memories you will treasure as well. 

Watch this video about Peony Prashanti, an Ainu shaman and herb farmer from Japan. Her company, Blossoming Lotus Herbs is based in Eugene, Oregon. This video focuses on an Ainu ceremonial ritual she performs to guide the healing of those around her. This project showed me how wonderful it can be to learn about the lives of other people. Peony is a wonderful soul, and it was a pleasure working with her on this project.