YTT EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHTS
The GPS Biking Crew
NUVO article on the GPS Biking Crew
Ana
Name: Anaisa "Ana" Aviles
Anaisa Ana Aviles is a senior at Emmerich Manual High School and has been a member of the Youth Tree Team (YTT) for the past three summers. Ana once aspired to become an independent beauty consultant after graduation, however, her involvement in the YTT sparked her interest in a different career path. Ana will attend Purdue University in the fall, with plans to major Landscape Architecture or Forestry.
About Me: I love to keep my schedule busy with rewarding activities. I am a member of the FFA, an agricultural organization that has been part of a great change in my life. In addition to FFA and the YTT, I contribute many hours to community service in my community, church, and school.
Why did you start working on the YTT? At first I really didn’t know much about the YTT. I kind of join things without realizing what they are. Some friends of mine were talking about the YTT, so I said to myself “Well, why not!”
What did you get out of the YTT? I have gained so much from the TYY. Not only have I learned how to maintain trees and plants, but I’ve also been motivated to start searching for a college of my choice. The YTT has helped encourage me to set and complete my goals.
What was your favorite experience working on the YTT? I enjoyed learning about nature, and I love looking back on all the amazing memories.
What is your favorite tree and why? I like the Magnolia because it is a nice tree that produces gorgeous flowers.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself. I am person who loves to enjoy life.
Do you think your involvement has had a lasting impact on you? It is a job I can get excited about, and learn from everyday. It has affected my decision to go to college and my decision about what to study while at college.
Would you encourage others to join the YTT? Why? This is once in a lifetime job for teenagers. It’s fun and it changes every day so it isn’t repetitive. It’s also provides the opportunity to go on field trips and a camping trip.
Jake
James (Jake) Sager started working in the Youth Tree Team in 2006. He quickly learned the skills and returned as a youth employee in 2007 and 2008. In 2009, Jake became the first YTT youth employee to become an adult crew leader. KIB is proud of Jake’s accomplishment, and we hope to continue to grow our own leaders from the youth employees working to care for trees today. Jake is now beginning his freshman year at Purdue with the intent to major in Landscape Architecture.
