The Mountaineers
Each week we bring you a personal story from one of our members. For our member profile this week we talked to...
Name Julie Graham
Branch Seattle
When did you first get involved with The Mountaineers? 2017
What youth programs do you participate in with The Mountaineers? Camps
10 ESSENTIAL QUESTIONS:
how did you first get involved with the mountaineers?
I started as a camper when I was seven. Since my first summer at camp, I knew I wanted to be one of the "cool big kids" that came to camp to volunteer every day. As a camper, my camp award was always “future camp counselor” or “Counselor in Training in Training,” which only furthered my hope to volunteer one day. Post-pandemic I was old enough to be a Counselor in Training and jumped right in.
Why do you participate in Mountaineers Youth Programs?
I volunteer at Summer Camp because I love seeing campers break out of their shell, try new things, and learn to love something they found scary.
If you could give one piece of advice to someone who wanted to spend more time outside, what would you say?
I would have to say that you should pick the thing you find most interesting, even if it also looks a little scary to try, because there will undoubtedly be someone else who wants to help you learn to love whatever you’re doing.
What things do you like to do when you’re not at Mountaineers youth programs?
I spend a lot of my time practicing and playing soccer with my team, as well as exploring Seattle parks and waterfronts with my friends.
LIGHTNING ROUND
Sunrise or sunset? Sunset
Favorite season? Summer
Gummy candy or chocolate bar? Gummy candy
What’s your 11th Essential? Friends
If you could have any superpower, what would it be? Shapeshifting
What’s your favorite close-to-home adventure? Hiking the fire tower at Mount Pilchuck
NOMINATE YOURSELF FOR MOUNTAINEER OF THE WEEK
Mountaineers come in all shapes and sizes, varying widely in age, outdoor experience, and length of time involved in The Mountaineers. Part of what makes our community so unique is the broad diversity of our membership, and we hope these weekly features highlight who we are and why our community plays an important part in feeling belonging in the outdoors. We are always seeking self-nominations for our Mountaineer of the Week, and we invite you to share your story. Trust us, we want to hear from you!
Want to nominate a friend? Email Bayley Stejer to make a recommendation.
