Hello, my name is Jovanna Fierro Velez,

and I'm incredibly thankful for the opportunity that Volunteers For Outdoor Colorado has provided me with in order to get me a step closer to achieving my career goals as I go into college to study Environmental Science.

As a soon-to-be graduating senior, I am thrilled to explore this new stage of my life where I will be exposed to many exciting opportunities that allow new experiences in the field of work in which I am incredibly passionate about. As I begin my college journey, my aspirations in the environmental field are centered around pursuing a degree in environmental sciences to deepen my understanding of ecosystems, natural resources, and sustainable land management practices. Additionally, I plan to engage in outdoor volunteering and park ranger training to align myself directly with land management and, ultimately, search and rescue operations. Building upon my prior experience as an Urban Ranger, I am eager to continue serving as a leader and environmental educator, providing knowledge on the significance of community involvement to underrepresented youth.

When I first became involved in the outdoors, I knew I wanted to incorporate my immense passion for teaching youth, stemming from my personal experiences overcoming stereotypes and educational challenges. This allowed me to work with organizations such as: Consumption Literacy project, which aimed to enhance community engagement through a community garden, where participants work together to maintain the garden and provide food for the community. Denver Youth Naturally, which offers free environmental service projects for families, providing hands-on outdoor experiences and conservation education. Colorado Young Leaders, which allowed me to advocate for changes needed in order to protect our people and environment.

Because of my very pleasant experience volunteering in these organizations, I applied and achieved employment with Environmental Learning for Kids’ Urban Rangers position during 2024. I got to learn many new skills by working with state park staff, including National Parks Service and Colorado Parks and Wildlife. As someone who was introduced to many of these outdoor activities, I became a form of communication to the over 1,600 students that are involved per year. This job allowed me to get exposed to outdoor work and get that true feel of working for land management, a park ranger, and a youth educator. By the end of the summer I was mesmerized with the idea of me being able to work in these fields full time. I quickly realized that this was my dream job. I continued to involve myself in even more organizations than ever, enrolled myself in classes that correlate to Wilderness First Aid, and prepared myself physically in order to withstand long hours of hands-on work. Whether it was re-building trails, cutting down wood piles, or cleaning trash in big national parks, I was passionate and took even small jobs very seriously, making sure that I gave above and beyond quality work. Through this learning process, I was not only able to find my passion, but I became a leader in my community serving as an environmental steward. I thrive towards continuing to give back to the environment and shape my future career to not only take care of it but teach others why it's important.

I am ecstatic after being accepted as a Grossman scholar. This scholarship will immensely contribute to not only my college education, but bring me a step closer into landing my dream job. Being an immigrant student, I've had to deal with the constant fear of not being able to afford college. Receiving this scholarship let me know that there's people out there who also believe in me and my skills to eventually create a change. I'm extremely grateful for this opportunity as it serves as my key towards success, motivating me even harder to get the education I need in order to achieve my career and personal goals. Due to this funding, I will be able to dedicate myself towards giving back to my community by providing education, advocacy, and conservation of our environment. This funding isn’t only an investment for my future, but for a change in the world.