Corps

Ana studied forest engineering in Brazil and did an exchange program in France.

“As a child, I always appreciated playing in the woods at my grandparents farm. My forestry degree made my love for the environment increase much more. When I found out about EarthCorps, I saw an opportunity to put my knowledge into action and to learn more about leadership, community engagement and restoration.”

Quena graduated from the University of Kansas with a degree in Global and International Studies with an emphasis on Environmental Policy and human rights.

“My environmental interest was sparked through my desire to make a difference in the world and through the interconnected relationships between people and the world we live in. EarthCorps was a way for me to explore the environmental side of that while making a tangible difference.”

Lauren graduated from Washington State University with a BA in Environmental Science. She has worked with various volunteer and environmental education organizations in Oregon.

“Being raised in the Pacific Northwest definitely sparked my love and interest for the outdoors. I love being outside whether it was in my backyard or out hiking in the Gorge. As I finished school, I discovered that I wanted to share this love of nature with everyone around. EarthCorps’ dedication to conservation, education and diversity drew me to Seattle and continues to teach and inspire me every day.”

Natalie graduated from Macalester College in Minnesota with a degree in Environmental Studies. This past summer she worked as a naturalist with the Seattle Audubon Society

“I have a passion for the mountains, forests and waters of the Puget Sound region. I wanted to deepen this connection by working within the landscapes that I love so much. My family hosted international corps members in 2007 and 2010 so I knew the emphasis that EarthCorps placed on the environment as well as community and it seemed like a perfect next step for me.”

Anam earned a Masters in Environmental Science from the National University of Science and Technology in Islamabad Pakistan.

“I’ve always had a deep affinity for the environment and the outdoors. EarthCorps combines my academic interests with my love for the environment. It has given me the opportunity to apply my studies and experience to real life situations.”

Before coming to EarthCorps Zak spent three months volunteering with World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms (WWOOF) in Spain and Costa Rica.

“My original spark for restoration work came from a vertebrate biology course I took in high school where we studied wildlife and their ecosystems in South Carolina State Parks. In college I became involved with our sustainability program and through that gained an appreciation for the role that our environment plays in those sustainable initiatives. My work through WWOOF prompted me to seek out other opportunities with a hands-on approach to learning about and improving the environment.”

Cory earned a BA in Environmental Studies from the University of Washington. He joined EarthCorps shortly after graduating in 2012 and worked as a corps member through 2013. He is extremely excited to step into the role of a Crew Leader this year.

“My dedication to the environment began at the end of my time in High School when I took my first class about environmental issues. I knew that I wanted to be in the environmental field, but I was still narrowing down my options when I first heard about EarthCorps. I was so inspired by EarthCorps’ work that I decided environmental restoration was the field for me, and I couldn’t be happier with the choice!

Lisa receiver her BA in Environmental Science in 2014 and since then has worked with the Morton Arboretum in Lisle, Illinois. She has also worked closely with Chicago Wildsounds studying the link between soundscapes and ecosystem health.

“I feel most inspired when I am part of an intentional community whose values are incorporated in everything they do. I believe this type of environment evokes empowerment of the individuals, elevates the group’s capabilities this mobilizing the lasting change we’re all aspiring towards.”

Alejandra studied Environmental Engineering and volunteered at the Environmental Education Center in Bolivia for a year. She also volunteers at TECHO, a nonprofit organization working to eradicate the extreme poverty situation in Bolivia

“Ever since I was a kid, I loved the environment. I used to live in a small city and got to enjoy and connect with the nearby nature. My city is growing and is removing part of the forest. I wanted to do something about it, so I decided to improve my knowledge in environmental restoration with the help of my community. EarthCorps is prefect for me and that’s why I decided to come here”

Sara studied environmental science in Spain. She was an EarthCorps international corps member in 2014 and is excited to be back as a crew leader.

“Since I can remember, I have always loved running without direction, jumping with no reason, and getting dirty without restriction. For that reason I wasn’t surprised that I instantly connected with EarthCorps’ mission. I cannot imagine a better way to help nature than helping to grow the new global generation of environmental leaders.”

Minwook is a proud graduate of the University of Washington’s School of Environmental and Forest Sciences.

“I decided to come to EarthCorps because I wanted to be apart of the budding ecological restoration field in Seattle and to apply the knowledge and skills I had obtained in graduating with my degree. I also came here to gain invaluable field experience, to build relationships with people from all over the world, and to build crucial leadership skills for the future. However, more so than anything else, I have an honest obligation and gratitude to service this special community and region that I have the privilege to call home.”

Nubras has a bachelors degree in water and environmental engineering. She had internships in Jordan water company and is IKT infrastructure.

“EarthCorps was the first program I found about environmental training and develops, leadership which is exactly what I was looking for after graduating. I wanted to have practical experience in my field of study. As it will help me with my career development and being an effective person.”

Lillian obtained her BA in Environmental Studies from the University of Washington. Her coursework concentrated in ecology and restoration. Lillian was fortunate to complete undergraduate research studying invasive species establishment in Pacific Northwest forests.

“Growing up in the Pacific Northwest, I had ample exposure to nature through hiking and backpacking. Through my academic career, I have learned about the value nature holds and felt a calling to better improve the environment around me.”

Hamza works in the field of environmental restoration and conservation under the National Environment Management Authority, in Uganda as a trainer and research assistant.

“My environmental interest was sparked during my time at University when I did my internship at the National Environment Management Authority. The other reason is that I have passion for farming and agriculture. The last reason is that our world environment climate change challenges, and how I as a person could play a leading role in improving the situation for future generations.”

Chris graduated from Illinois State University with a BS in Kinesiology, and the University of Kentucky with a MS in health promotion. This past year he volunteered at an indoor sustainable aquaponics farm in Kentucky.

“My interested in environmental restoration stems from the connection between an individual’s health and their surrounding environment. I have a passion for outdoor activities such as running, cycling, and hiking. These interests, combined with the desire to learn the technical skills of environmental restoration, fostered my decision to join EarthCorps.”

Gustavo graduated from the University of Sao Paulo with a degree in forestry engineering.

“In Brazil there are lots of important forest formation, so that sparked my interest in work with forest restoration. I always liked to work with forest restoration, and mainly work in groups.  EarthCorps it’s a great opportunity to develop my skills as a leader and take advantage to know new people and a new culture.”

Sabrina graduate with a degree in public policy from Duke University and served with the Utah Conservation Corps prior to joining EarthCorps.

“I’ve always loved the outdoors and nature. After working an office job for several years, I decided to pursue my passion for the environment and outdoors by joining the Utah Conservation Corps. From there, EarthCorps was an amazing next step and opportunity for me. Plus, Seattle is awesome and you know what they say, “the west is best!”.”

Annie has an undergraduate degree in industrial engineering and a graduate degree in improvement of quality, occupational safety and environmental procedures.

“I came to EarthCorps because the education and technology of USA has already resolved some problems or situations that we have now in my country.”

Siria studied Political Science at California State University. She served as an AmeriCorps member with City Year Los Angeles.

“I’m a person who believes that there is always room to grow. Having minor knowledge in environmental restoration, and witnessing climate change back home, I wanted to find ways in which I could make a change in our environment, as well as gain skills that I could take with me and utilize when my journey with EarthCorps ends.”

Sam is currently in the process of pursuing a degree in Earth Science as a start to a career in conservation.

“I have a passion for great food, and I’m learning that great food is a result of a clean and healthy environment. EarthCorps is allowing me to help make such an environment a reality.”

Chel-C graduated from Albion College in 2017. While there She studied abroad in South Caicos at the SFS Center for Marine Resource Management.

“Every day I strive to be an example of someone who stewards the planet. EarthCorps and I share the same values which made me feel that this was the place for me.”

Kristin studied communication at the University of Wisconsin – Oshkosh.

“When in doubt, volunteer it out… but literally. After graduating college I’ve been enrolling in AmeriCorps program including FEMA Corps and the Utah Conservation Corps. The conservation corps really sparked my love of being outdoors and I want to continue making the earth an awesome place everyone can enjoy!”

Rachel studied geology at Oberlin College and has had a lifelong interest in and love for the natural world.

“Hiking, backpacking, canoeing—going to summer camp in the Catskill and Adirondack mountains of upstate NY taught me to love and care for the environment. EarthCorps serves national and international communities by teaching young environmentalists to lead and solve problems in their own environment.”

Ellen obtained a BA in Biology from Ohio Wesleyan University.

“The connections between environmental justice and social justice becomes increasingly important to me as I continue to learn and deepen my relationship with nature. EarthCorps appealed to me as a way to interact intimately with the natural environment, as well with passionate and thoughtful people, so that I may keep learning.

Gabby has been a volunteer and youth ambassador with Washington Trails Association as well as completing the Wilderness Skills Certificate program at Bellevue College.

“Dirt has always been my favorite accessory since I was little, and environmental consciousness has always been a huge part of my life. I see EarthCorps as a great opportunity to develop my skills with fellow-minded people.”

Abigail has a BS environmental science and is currently enrolled in a graduate school with a MS Environmental management.

“When I was still a child, I was exposed to tropical forests because my mom brought me with her when she visits an indigenous community within the forest (this had been related to her job). During high school I also had a really good interest on climate change discussion. I am now in EarthCorps to experience actual environmental restoration and not just study the in the 4 corners of my ES-classrooms.”

Nora is a recent graduate from the University of Washington with a Bachelor of Science in Public Health.

“When I moved out to the Pacific Northwest, I discovered its beauty and just cannot wait to spend time working outside on this adventure with EarthCorps. I look forward to creating lasting relationships with team members through our hard work!”

Lukas graduated from Ferrum College with a BS in Environmental Science. He has worked at Northwest Youth Corps, AmeriCorps NCCC and Wildland Firefighting.

“I grew up enjoying the outdoors and volunteered often to help clean up areas around my hometown. Since college, I have been working for various organizations that practice environmental stewardship and have experienced a lot of great opportunities. I think that EarthCorps will be a perfect fit for my interest and goals to find a career in ecological restoration.”

Elvis worked as a community forestry officer helping communities create forests and plant trees to restore damaged habitats.

“Community building and habitat restoration, which EarthCorps offers, are in line with my future career goals. I want to help secure the survival of endangered primates in my community and also to help my community cope with effects of commercial logging.”

Linda studied at San Francisco State University and earned her BS in business finance. Prior to EarthCorps, she completed a year of service with AmeriCorps NCCC based in Baltimore, Maryland.

“During my first year of service, I realized that my passion and true calling was out in nature and preserving our environment. Coming together with an organization like EarthCorps, where it is environmentally-focused and connects like-minded individuals through service, is the perfect position for me.”

Sergei has been a volunteer in his local botanical garden for many years.

“I have been interested in nature and ecology since my childhood, and that’s why I later became a volunteer in an environmental field. And I am sure that the skills and experiences that I will acquire during my training in EarthCorps, will help me to implement more interesting and important projects back in my home country.”

Eric graduated from the University of Wisconsin with a degree in Biology and Environmental studies.

“Growing up on an old farm in rural Wisconsin gave me an appreciation for nature and the community formed around it. Throughout my undergrad, I cultured this love of the environment into a passion for stewardship and service. I ultimately chose to come to EarthCorps because I want to leave something for future generations, but also am very dedicated to physical labor while I am still young.”

Nathan recently graduated from the University of Portland with a Bachelors of Arts in Philosophy. During his time at UP he completed a Field Internship

“My desire to do conservation for began with a love for nature coupled with a conviction to help create a more just world. Also, as a Christian, I personally view conservation as a way to love God through holding the commandment to “till and keep” the earth and live into responsible stewardship of God’s creation. Thus, the choice to do EarthCorps is out of desire to bring us closer to right relationship with nature in doing so love God in that pursuit.”

Himani completed her undergraduate degree in forestry and her graduate degree in environmental sciences. She volunteered for Worldwide Fund for Nature-India and participated in certificate course by UNFCCC.

“By learning the relation and link between humans and nature by observation and exploring the outskirts of my city and state I got inspired to learn more about the environmental science and opted the field for my further studies and come to EarthCorps”

Liz graduated from the University of Maryland with a degree in Environmental Science and Policy with a concentration in biodiversity and conservation biology. While in school she volunteered with UMD’s office of sustainability, assisted in entomology lab with wetland and stream research and interned on a whale watching vessel doing conservation education and data recording.

“Ever since a young age, being outside has made me feel more alive, and as I grew I learned more about issues impacting nature, and I knew I wanted to do something about it. I knew EarthCorps would provide me with a hands-on way to help the local environment so that others may continue to enjoy it and be inspired by it for years to come.”

Adnane is a community development adviser working with communities to design and develop environmental and economic projects.

“Dealing with environmental issues was part of my daily work in the last two years. So the training with EC will help me reinforce my skills and learn new things and then be more valuable to my community.”

Ryan has attended Columbus State Community College working towards an associates of Arts degree. For the past six years he has proudly worked at the Grandview Heights Public Library.

I’ve always held the natural world in a high regard. As I’ve gotten older, I clearly see the urgency of human caused climate change. I hope to offset not only my own impact, but also the impact of others who are still learning and growing.”

Jon studied outdoor education and leadership at central Wyoming College. He worked as an environmental technician and researched the glaciers throughout the Wind River Range of Wyoming.

“My eyes were not opened to the fruitful life, while living sustainably, until I moved out to the west. I have found more connections the deeper I become immersed in the land and communities around me. EarthCorps is a perfect embodiment of this philosophy, so naturally I was drawn here.”

Venessa has been working with the environment since high school and has always participated in tree planting and coastal cleanup activities.

“After high school, I realized there were still a lot to be done in the environment to help communities improve on their living conditions. I want to make my career in the environmental field and believe EarthCorps will be the perfect opportunity to start achieving that goal.”

Mae graduated from Emerson College with a BS in Journalism and minors in Environmental studies and photography. She spent a year working for Appalachian Mountain Club.

“Learning about the rapid rate of degradation of earth’s abundant ecosystems sparked my interest in environmental service, justice, and stewardship. I hope to apply skills I’ve learned revolving around environmental science policy and communications in the beautiful Puget Sound region.”