Youth In Nature 2023-24 Cohort
Elsa
Aspen High School, Grade 12
My name is Elsa. A senior at Aspen High School, I’m an avid skier and hiking/nature enthusiast. I have two dogs who are always down to be my adventure buddies! I look forward to studying environmental sciences and journalism in college. I am excited to join a community full of like-minded members and to create a welcoming environment where everyone feels supported and challenged. I always value kindness, inclusion, and most importantly, having fun!
Quinn
Glenwood Springs High School, Grade 11
I am so excited to be a part of this youth in nature program! I love giving back to Mother Nature, and this program has helped me find such an amazing group of people to experience and connect with the outdoors together. Outside of this program I love running, aerial silks, and just being outside, although I’m definitely not a huge fan of cold weather. I really appreciate how much this program is giving us a chance to give back to our planet, and connect more with the world around us.
Jordin
Grand Valley High School, Grade 12
I'm a high school senior from Grand Valley who likes hunting, fishing, kayaking, hiking, and spending time with my family outdoors. I have special interests in writing and enjoy seeing wildlife up close whether that be a herd of elk or a stray cat on my porch. Growing up I loved visiting my family members' farms up in North Dakota in the Red River Valley, being surrounded by agriculture, and going on four-wheeling adventures. Through this program I want to connect with the Colorado outdoors and learn what the environment has to offer us through herbal properties and all sorts of wildlife facts!
Baruhk
Glenwood Springs High School, Grade 11
My name is Barukh, I go to Glenwood Springs High School. In my free time I like to listen to music, practice playing the guitar, take pictures, and put my culinary skills to the test. Being in the Youth in Nature program allows me to reconnect with nature, enjoy my time with friends, as well as admire the scenery that is all around us. I’ve been able to push myself out of my comfort zone while trying new things. Thank you, Youth In Nature!
Johnny
Roaring Fork High School, Grade 11
Hello, My name is Johnny. I was born in Basalt, at my house, and I have lived here my entire life of 16 years. I went to Aspen Community School from kindergarten to 8th grade, and now I'm at Roaring Fork High School. I spend most of my free time playing games with friends, watching TV and movies, or reading. I joined YIN as a way to get outdoors more, experience some things I haven't before, and to find a new group I could be part of. So far, it has been a lot of fun, and I'm looking forward to everything else I get to do with this program!
Mathew
Glenwood Springs High School, Grade 11
I have always enjoyed going outdoors. I have an outdoorsy family and have been in Boy Scouts since third grade. Outside is my happy place. I enjoy mountain biking, hiking, and skiing. I feel very fortunate to live in a place where those things are abundant and accessible. I am excited to use this opportunity to learn more about our role in keeping nature natural and help make it more enjoyable for others. I am also excited to go on my first hut trip and meet people from up and down the valley who I would never meet otherwise. I am eager to push myself and learn new things.
Anasophia
Roaring Fork High School, Grade 10
I’ve grown up in The Roaring Fork Valley, always aware of how lucky I am to live in such a beautiful place. Youth In Nature gives me an opportunity to further my exploration and experiences in the outdoors which is one of my biggest passions. I love baking, working out, paddle boarding, and swimming. I love learning and am very academically driven; my favorite subjects are environmental science and social studies.
Yake
Roaring Fork High School, Grade 10
I am a 15 year old who has always lived in the valley. I love spending time with my dog, family and friends when I get the chance to. I love to read and enjoy watching the stars.
Something I want to get out of Youth in Nature is to meet new people and make new memories. Hopefully this opportunity will give me the ability to learn new things, give me new interests, and hobbies. I have an upbeat personality and one of my strengths is cheering people on, and helping others out.
Itzel
Rifle High School, Grade 12
I am 17 years old, I like to read, draw, and ride my bike around the parks. I've been into nature since I was a kid. I like how the Youth In Nature Program lets me be a kid again, enjoying the outdoors and not having to worry about anything. I always enjoy meeting new people, to get out of my shell and to try new things. I’m glad I was able to find people who enjoy this as much as I do. Ever since I was a kid I liked to make a difference even if it’s the tiniest thing. I hope reconnecting with nature will clear my head and help me be myself. I like that this program helps you enjoy where you live and learn about your environment.
Travis
Grand Valley High School, Grade 11
I am 17 and my passions are singing/songwriting, fitness, and being outdoors. Being in this program has shown me how to enjoy the present moment. Being out in nature inspires me to connect with people, write songs, and if nothing else to look at the beautiful mountains and trees. I got to experience a new breath of fresh air that has motivated me to take nothing for granted and enjoy everything from the little delicate flowers to the great mountainous landscapes.
