Volunteer Spotlight: Katie Acheson
(**PR Note: Every week, different volunteers will have short “volunteer appreciation” pieces written about them, focusing on their work within the Community Service Center)
Katie Acheson is a sophomor majoring in Hospitality Administration and minoring in Sustainable Energy
How long have you been involved with Branch Out?
"I have been involved with Branch Out since my freshman year. I actually heard of the club during FYSOP which I did before my freshman year. I was in the Environmental group, and one of my leaders was very involved in Branch Out. So, they told us all to get involved, and I did!"
What is your favorite service that you've ever done with Branch Out?
"My favorite service with Branch Out was actually last winter. It was one of my first volunteer projects with Branch Out, and we went to work at a garden. For some reason, I was under the impression that it was a greenhouse, and that therefore we would be working inside. I wore sneakers and jeans and a light coat (in February), and didn't realize until I got to the site that we would be working outside, in nearly 5 feet of snow, and I was the only one not in snow gear. Needless to say, I got soaked and was freezing, but it was an awesome bonding experience and very memorable! Plus, we shoveled snow off of an entire outdoor garden to help save the plants, which are used by elementary-aged kids to learn about the environment! So, it was very rewarding!"
What interests you most about the environment?
"The environment interests me because honestly, it is the entire reason that people can survive on this planet! I have always loved being outside, working with animals and plants and just being grateful for how beautiful nature is! I have gotten the opportunity to travel to some really amazing, beautiful places that show just how diverse nature can be. I think nothing is more important than learning how people can successfully live with nature, and not separate from it."
What are you aiming to do after graduation or in the upcoming semester?
"After graduation, I am hoping to participate in the Peace Corps. Then, I want to combine my love for hospitality with my love for the environment by consulting with hotels and restaurants to make their businesses more sustainable!"
How are you environmentally sustainable?
"I am environmentally sustainable by just doing the small things. I always use a reusable water bottle and coffee mug, I always unplug lights and other energy using appliances, and I try to create as little trash as possible. At home, my family has always been great at composting (we have a big compost pile where all our food waste goes) and buying our food from local businesses. Seriously, its the little things that will eventually make a big difference."
