Bates College senior Kevin Foote has discovered that Lewiston, the second largest city in the state of Maine, is of all things, "a garden spot." By participating in one of the college's extensive service-learning programs, he has come to view the Twin Cities of Lewiston–Auburn as the only place to garden this summer while building lasting community/college bonds at the Hillveiw Housing Community.

"Bates is one small and important part of Lewiston, but it's only a very small piece of land within a much larger community," says Foote, a native of Cumberland, Maine. "Understanding the important ties between Bates and the surrounding community will only enrich each person's experience here."

After transferring to Bates as a sophomore from Colgate University, Foote chose to live in the college's community service theme house, were he worked with the Maine Rural Workers and downtown neighborhood associations. Living in a residence dedicated to helping others reaffirmed Foote's decision to transfer, while also providing him with a place to write and reflect on many a philosophy paper.

This fall, Foote will work closely with David Kolb, Charles A. Dana Professor of Philosophy, as he begins his senior thesis, an exploration of "the Self" within the context of personal identity. "Philosophy is unlike learning a particular specialty or trade," he says. "Rather, it gives one the ability to think critically and write sustained critiques, which is why I think it's one of the most beneficial subjects one could possibly study." -- By Nick Bournakel '01