I first learned about the Avalanche Science Program when researching where to take my AIARE Rec 2 course. After a few months of thought, I decided it would be worth my time and effort. At first, coming into this program my goals were to become a responsible recreational backcountry user. I can say with confidence that I accomplished this goal well before completing my first year. Looking back, I think I was on a crash course to end up in the snow and avalanche industry, but it wasn't until sometime in my first year that I realized I want to dedicate my life to snow science and the avalanche industry.

I have been continuously setting new goals and achieving them faster than I expected throughout the duration of my time at CMC. Of course, some of the more tangible goals for me were to pass my Pro 1 exam, get my certificate in Snow, Weather, and Avalanche Sciences, gain a network of peers and mentors, and enjoy my time in the mountains. The Pro 1 testing seemed easy after the amount of preparation I had. I am scheduled to graduate from the program on May 1st with my Snow, Weather, and Avalanche Field Technician certificate. I have met some of the most intelligent and inspiring individuals throughout the duration of this program and fully expect to stay in touch with most of them for the rest of my life. Although there were countless late nights studying, and the struggle of working and attending school full time was on many occasions stressful and overwhelming, I look back at these two years with nothing but joy and gratitude.

As for my future goals now that my time at Colorado Mountain College is coming to an end, I would like to gain more professional experience in the professional avalanche industry, educate recreational users on how to travel responsibly through avalanche terrain, and continue to further my own education with more school in the future.