By Chase Noonan
Wouldn't it be perfect to have a way to experience Colorado's stunning locations, while in the process learning about the complicated small world we live in?
Well luckily for us there was.
The Mountain Science Institute is an amazing way for people to stray from the long treadmill of summer, and truly live in the moment by experiencing this beautiful state and the intriguing science behind it. When I first joined Mountain Science Institute I had no clue what to expect.
Would I like it? Would it be what I expected?
The Mountain Science Institute is a non-profit organization that strives to make "Science You Can Use" its status quo. The doorways this amazing internship opened for me and the other interns gave all of us unbelievable opportunities for our future careers and endeavors. When I signed up for this program, I wanted to experience a fun, adventurous learning program that got me more involved with nature and gave me extensive knowledge for future reference.
Not only did the program accomplish that, but the future career path options I gained from this internship are probably the most useful expertise I have ever learned. Being able to take home these newly-found skills and assets puts a smile on my face when I get to share them with my family and friends. While getting to see the ins-and-outs of Colorado in its true form, and also meeting many scientific and intelligent people, I was shown the true beauty in these mountains. To meet with these amazing people and knowing that I am learning these very trustworthy facts makes this internship one of the best out there.
During these amazing two weeks I did numerous activities and lessons with these professionals. One included getting the opportunity to plant over 200 carax seeds, a perennial sedge that is indigenous to Colorado. This showed us what wetlands really do to help these mountains, and how various programs and companies work on restoring them. Creating new life for the plants and many other wildlife that benefit from it brought new light to my outdoor knowledge.
Another exhilarating moment that occurred during the two weeks was a varying range of life skills, such as resume building and English expertise, aside from nature. I was taught the most proficient way to perfect my personal resume, allowing me to have the potential to get into numerous jobs in the future with ease. I also learned about writing articles and how I could perfect my writing horizon to give the reader the best in-depth experience. This was especially rejuvenating because it expanded my skills in not just article writing, but all other forms of English curriculum.
And who can forget the people I shared the ride with?
Guided by spectacular counselors, there to help me every step of the way, the program wouldn't be as great as it was without them. Making new friends with fellow interns and teachers, the people I met were my guidance into the ongoing world of science.
It would be a mistake to not sign up for this life-changing experience, because when it's all over you will be wishing you could do it all again. I sure am.
Chase Noonan is a 15-year-old Bayfield resident.
