1. What inspired you to join VISIONS?

I was looking for a way to work with youth that felt active and meaningful—something that helped them contribute to something bigger than themselves. I didn’t have many mentors growing up, and now that I can look back and see how far I’ve come, I want to be the person I would have appreciated having in my life. I hope to show everyone joining a VISIONS experience just how big the world is and how much possibility lies ahead of them.

2. What experiences have shaped your passion for community service and youth development?

After high school, I took a non-traditional path and earned my undergraduate degree in Taipei, Taiwan. I first went there through a fantastic high school scholarship and have since mentored new students in the program. During my time in Taiwan, I volunteered at schools around the country, teaching English and connecting with curious young students. Back home in the U.S., I stay active at the local food bank, which I relied on growing up.

I’ve also seen the impact of community service abroad—teaching English and working on construction projects in a rural Moroccan community filled with bright young kids. I came to see how many people are eager to learn but lack access to basic resources. Even in the U.S., there are communities without the leadership or funding they need. These experiences shaped how I view equity, education, and community work.

3. What is your favorite achievement?

One of my ongoing achievements is that I’ve hitchhiked over 6,000 miles across 15 countries. It’s my main way of getting around when traveling and has taught me so much about humility, kindness, and patience. I’ve met incredible people and discovered places I never would have seen without just a thumb and a smile.

4. What is your favorite place you’ve traveled?

It’s hard to pick just one, but I’d have to say Greece. My first trip was in the winter, exploring northern mountain villages and coastal towns. I’ve returned several times since, and one of my fondest memories is wild camping on the islands of Nisyros and Samothraki. There’s something deeply comforting about the food, music, and way of life there. The Mediterranean as a whole has a really special energy.

5. What is the best advice you’ve received?

“Take your time.”
It’s simple but resonates in many ways. I remind myself of it often when thinking about my life path or the things I want to experience. It’s easy to compare ourselves to others and feel pressure to catch up, but going at your own pace—whether it’s school, work, travel, or anything else—is key. Life truly is about the journey, not the destination. It also helps me slow down in daily life, resisting the constant pressure to be productive and instead bringing more intention into everything I do.

6. What do you hope to accomplish this summer?

I hope to feel more grounded and purposeful being on current Indigenous land, especially as someone of white European descent. Through service and connection with the Blackfeet community, I hope to deepen my understanding of what it means to be a genuine ally and friend—one who learns, listens, and engages without othering or romanticizing.

7. What are you most excited about this summer?

Sharing my love of Montana! I spent part of my childhood in western Montana, and Big Sky Country has a special place in my heart. I’m excited to see how teens experience it for the first time, especially those who haven’t spent much time in wide-open nature. I’m also really looking forward to exploring Glacier National Park and sharing my passion for camping and the outdoors.

8. If you had to give one piece of advice or words of encouragement to someone on their first VISIONS experience, what would it be?

Let yourself be who you truly want to be.
A VISIONS program is one of those rare spaces where no one knows you from before—take that as a chance to leave behind old expectations and step into your truest self. So often we’re shaped by how others see us, even in well-meaning ways, and it can box us in as we grow. Embrace the unfamiliarity and let your real self shine through.