Bonderman Travel Fellowship

Nicolle Esparo

Nicolle Esparo 2014

Biochemistry; Anthropology

Undergraduate

2014 Fellows

Hometown: Poulsbo, WA

Travel Locations: Ecuador, Peru, Chile, Argentina, Uruguay, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Singapore

Indonesia has mystified Esparo since her first anthropology course, and the mountains and wilderness of South America have always called to her from glossy pictures in books. She specifically chose these regions because of the indomitable characters of their inhabitants and the value of their natural resources to science, both historically and in modern times. She wants to walk in the footsteps of courageous indigenous peoples and revolutionary scientists. Whether traveling by foot, bus, boat or plane, she is excited to explore.

Alumni Reflections

What is a favorite memory from your Bonderman?

“One of the things that I think about frequently these days is how grateful I am that I spent a few days in Hong Kong (when I could have just transferred flights there). It wasn’t on my original itinerary and I wasn’t terribly interested in going there because I didn’t think I would like such a dense city, but it ended up being one of my absolute favorite places I’ve ever been to. I’m somber now thinking about how much it’s changed in the last few years – I wonder to what degree it resembles the place I visited anymore – and I feel lucky that I was able to see it when I did.”

What is inspiring you?

“Lately I’m inspired by the thought of becoming a published writer.”