From the Blue Ocean to the Whitman Blues

Transitioning from the island lifestyle to the American lifestyle was not an easy one. I grew up in the Marshall Islands–where I woke up everyday to tropical weather, endless access to seafood, and vast blue waters. Arriving in the US–arriving in Walla Walla–I was a fish out of water; mountains, seasonal changes, lakes and DUCKS?

Photo Credit: Sam Montes ’23

In my head, I was thinking “How in the world are you going to get used to that?” The answer was simple, Whitman College. 

I remembered why I came here and why I chose Whitman. I came to learn from professors who really make undergrad worthwhile. For example, I struggled through the decision of choosing a major. I was worried about whether I was choosing the right one or not. However, when conversations happened with my academic advisor and professors of classes I felt heard. I was offered support which made me feel more confident in my decision. I especially love the environmental studies department at Whitman because it lets me combine majors and gives me the space to experiment and choose where in the field I belong.

Outside of academics, Whitman made me feel at home and helped me rekindle my love for volleyball. I grew up playing volleyball but I’m not a pro. When I heard Whitman had an intramural club team, I went for it! When it is cold out, the IM volleyball club has indoor spaces to play in and when it is warm outside, we play in the sand pit right outside of our dining hall. It reminds me of when I used to play back home out on the beaches with my childhood friends.

I also have a support system here. In my first few weeks, I was excited to make new friends and I found some from all over the world. The international community at Whitman is very supportive and understanding of what it’s like to be away from home. I remember arriving on campus for international student orientation and naturally befriending people at my lunch table because they’ve never heard anyone speak my native language of Marshallese. Many were shocked and genuinely interested in the way it sounded, therefore, I think I spent a lot of time just speaking it—something I didn’t expect to do when arriving in Walla Walla. 

These experiences make me realize it’s not so bad being away from home. Because in addition to offering me an education, Whitman offers me a second home, a place to be part of. It was a tough transition but the community definitely made it easier for me to be myself. Waiting to welcome you!

Bertine Rose Lakjohn is a junior from the Marshall Islands majoring in Environmental Studies–Sociology. Jewett and Reid cafés hold a special place in Berty’s heart but she wishes Whitman would bring back the OG library cafe!