As a child, being outdoors was a huge part of my life. Some of my favorite memories are those in nature with the people I love. These memories included canoeing with my dad, fishing for bluegill with my grandfather, or even going to environmental education camps at a local arboretum in my hometown of Newark, Ohio.

Fast forward to 2019, and I am leading that same summer camp at the arboretum. In 2020, many summer camps had to shut down and turn away kids. By the spring of 2021, I was applying to many jobs, just hoping something would stick. The Student Conservation Association had various positions in Alaska, and I figured I would throw my name in the hat.

It was quite a shock when I received the first email from Ranger Michelle Ostrowski at the Kenai National Wildlife Refuge. Honestly, I thought it was a scam. When offered the 13-week environmental education intern position, I said I had to “think on it,” but as soon as I hung up the phone, I was jumping up and down with excitement.

Within my first week, I was in awe of Alaska. I cannot describe how much my expectations were blown out of the water.

Read more in the Peninsula Clarion…

TRIPLE your support for our national treasures, community green spaces, and youth in conservation with our Giving Tuesday 3X Match!