The Impact of Geography on Our Daily Lives

Geography has an immense impact on our daily lives. From determining the location and natural resources of our homes to shaping our cultural and social identities, geography plays a critical role in shaping the world we inhabit. As a college student, I have found that my chosen field of study is deeply intertwined with the geography and history of the regions that I'm interested in. In this essay, I will explore the impact of geography on my life and how it has shaped my academic and personal pursuits.

Geography, as a discipline, studies the earth and all the processes that shape its physical and human landscapes. The study of geography helps us understand the interactions between humans and their environments, how changes in one environment affect others and our daily lives, and the different ways in which societies have adapted to environmental and economic conditions. As a college student pursuing a degree in geography, I am continuously fascinated by the diverse ways in which geography impacts the world.

One way in which geography affects my daily life is the food I eat. Geography plays a crucial role in determining where different crops can grow, how they are grown, and how they are transported to different regions. For example, the United States is one of the largest producers of corn, soybeans, and wheat, which are critical staples of the American diet. Although these crops can be grown in different parts of the US, the Midwest region is particularly known for its production of corn and soybeans due to soil conditions and the climate. As a result, the transportation of these crops around the country can have a significant impact on the price of food and what types of food are available to us. Being aware of the geography of food production has made me more conscious of my choices as a consumer and how my choices impact the environment and the lives of others.

Another way geography has impacted my life is through my interest in political and social issues. Geography plays a crucial role in shaping political and social orders. People have unique cultural identities that are tied to the land they live in and their interactions with other people. For example, in the United States, the South has a distinct cultural identity that is closely tied to the geography of the region. The humid subtropical climate, fertile soils, and unique ecosystem have influenced the development of southern culture, including music, literature, food, and architecture. Regional differences in culture, politics, and social norms have always fascinated me, and geography plays a significant role in these differences.

As a geography student, I have also gained an appreciation for the different ways in which people interact with their environment. Some societies rely heavily on natural resources for survival, such as fishing, farming, and hunting, whereas others are more dependent on industry and technology. Changes in the environment, such as climate change, can have significant impacts on these societies and how they adapt to changing conditions. This understanding has made me more aware of the importance of sustainable practices and how our actions can have a lasting impact on society and the environment.

In conclusion, geography plays a significant role in our daily lives, from determining the food we eat to shaping our cultural norms and social identities. As a college student pursuing a degree in geography, I have gained a fascination with the ways in which geography influences the world we live in, and how we, in turn, impact our environment. Being aware of the impact of geography on our lives has made me more conscious of my choices as a consumer, my impact on society and the environment, and how I can use my skills and knowledge to promote sustainable practices.