Living Out “Learning & Labor” Through CELA

Nathaniel Liu ’26 understands why Oberlin’s motto, “Learning & Labor,” has stuck around so long: it’s because the Center for Engaged Liberal Arts (CELA) connects students’ academic interests with real-world experiences, allowing the two to inform one another as students navigate college and life beyond Oberlin.

Throughout his time at Oberlin, Liu has participated in winter term micro-internships, which allow students to gain internship experience and winter term project credit through Oberlin-affiliated activities on and off campus. Oberlin’s Career Exploration and Development office, within the CELA space, sponsors the program.

First, Liu apprenticed with an Oberlin alumnus at his sculpture studio in New York City. There, he applied his classroom-based photography and videography skills in a professional, day-to-day context. “I realized that while I enjoyed the work, the lifestyle of a professional artist was not for me. It was a valuable lesson: learning what you don’t want to do is as important as learning what you do.”

With new career aspirations, Liu pursued another winter term micro-internship, writing articles about climate change for the National Park Service. Although the position was cut short due to political tensions in the U.S., he retained his passion for environmental communication. “I learned that unpredictability is often the price of environmental public service, yet it only solidified my commitment to the field.”

Next, with guidance and support from CELA’s Fellowships and Awards office, Liu applied for several prestigious fellowships and ultimately earned the Udall Undergraduate Scholarship for Environmental Studies.

Overall, CELA has honed Liu’s practical skills and clarified his future plans. “CELA has done more than just provide work experience; it has helped me identify and fill the gaps in my skill set, ensuring my education remains aligned with my professional goals.”

After graduating, Liu—a triple major in environmental studies, East Asian studies, and politics—plans to pursue a fellowship in Asia. He looks forward to further refining his interests and goals, with the hope of returning to Maine for a long-term career in environmental public service.

Liu is a nominee for the CELA Award, recognizing outstanding engagement and achievement in connecting academic pursuits with experiential learning.