Sydney Cook

1. What inspired you to join VISIONS?

I found VISIONS through the Returned Peace Corps Volunteers job postings website. As a Returned Peace Corps Volunteer, I was seeking another opportunity to engage in a community service program rooted in cross-cultural service and youth development. After reading about the VISIONS mission and its emphasis on community connection and the Explore, Belong, and Become principles, I immediately applied.

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

My interest in community service began when I started volunteering at a Therapeutic Equine Center in high school. By working with the community and helping individuals connect with the horses and strengthen their relationship with themselves, I learned the value of connection and community in improving health on both a personal and community level.

I spent a few summers working at Ghost Ranch, an education and retreat center in Northern New Mexico, as a Youth Leader and Outdoor Adventure Guide. My experience at Ghost Ranch allowed me to discover my passion for youth development and conservation of the natural world.

After graduating from college, I applied to the Peace Corps and served as a Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene Facilitator in Peru. My time in Peru solidified my devotion to community service and environmental sustainability. The most impactful lesson I learned from my service in Peru was the value of connection. The relationships I made with my neighbors, co-workers, fellow volunteers, animals, and the environment around me left the greatest influence on my life. I carry my passion and devotion to building meaningful connections through service projects into every opportunity and experience in my life, which ultimately brought me to VISIONS.

3. What is your favorite achievement?

Personally, my favorite achievement has been completing a 50k trail race with 7,000 feet of elevation gain. Ultra-running is my greatest hobby. Professionally, I am most proud of my work as a Peer Health Coach for individuals with severe mental illness and substance abuse. Witnessing the progress my clients have made in their journeys has been the most rewarding experience.

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

I cannot choose only one favorite place. Peru holds an incredibly special place in my heart. I met the kindest, most generous people in Amazonas and Ancash, where I lived and worked. The nature is incredibly breathtaking, and the food is delicious. My favorite place in the U.S. is New Mexico, which I find has a beautiful and serene energy. Costa Rica is another one of my favorite places for the amazing surf and beautiful weather.

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

“Be the change that you want to see in the world.” I live by this statement. I think it is important to embody your values and work to achieve your dreams. I also love Nelson Mandela’s quote: “If you talk to a man in a language he understands, that goes to his head. If you talk to him in his language, that goes to his heart.” I love this quote because it shows the importance of working to understand and appreciate one another in order to form a meaningful connection.

6. What do you hope to accomplish this summer?

I hope to learn as much as I can about the Blackfeet community, serve as a strong group leader, and help instill the value of community service in VISIONS participants.

7. What are you most excited about this summer?

I am most excited to get to know the community in Browning, the VISIONS team, the participants, and to spend time in nature.

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?

Stay curious and learn as much as you can!