In the fall semester of 2022, I had the opportunity to participate in the inaugural campaign of UHP CRITS (Critical Reflection and Introspection through Storytelling). The program uses the 5th Edition of Dungeons and Dragons to explore goals and themes in a safe space. Some of the goals I made were centered around family dynamics, social and political power, and identity formulation. Having almost no experience with D&D (aside from Stranger Things), I had no clue what to expect at our first session. I had pieced together something of a character, but I didn't know exactly what I was supposed to do or how gameplay would work. Our Game Master, Kyle, as well as the rest of the party, showed me the ropes and gave me the tools to explore the goals I had set before I started the journey with all of them. While I won't share any details of the experience to avoid spoiling the adventure for future parties, I can say with certainty that the experience was moving and meaningful. It reaffirmed to me the power that stories have.
The Honors Program was more than generous in the resources they provided us with to make sure that we had all the tools we needed to be successful. Aside from dice, a detailed, custom game map, and much more. They also had us design our own mini figures of our characters using Hero Forge. The rendered design for my character, Sapia Adelsau, is an eleven druid from a wealthy family. She is stubborn and pretentious, but she is also compassionate and ambitious. Although we are more similar than different, she was still able to teach me more than I could have ever expected. Having the opportunity to develop her character alongside like-minded, creative individuals, provided the space for true exploration into not only our designated goals, but also relationships and vulnerability. I am so beyond grateful that I had this opportunity, and will treasure the memories, lessons, and friends for the rest of my collegiate career.
