Sabine's Experience in GLI

Their capstone team focused on eliminating barriers between marginalized communities and the outdoors at UM, as a strategy for addressing some of the harm caused by historical legacies of oppression. Sabine's Beyond the Classroom experience was a major motivator in advocating for this topic. They’ve learned a lot about teamwork, being held accountable, and the mental and physical benefits of spending time outside.

Sabine worked on a women’s and nonbinary chainsaw crew for Southwest Conservation Corps based out of Durango, Colorado. The group focused on invasive species removal, specifically Russian Olive. This was, Sabine says without hesitation, the best experience of their life. They met a whole crew of incredible people and were able to take part in a safe and strong community that was validating for them and their identity. The work itself was challenging, but right up their alley. In their downtime, they traveled all around the Southwest. This included climbing many mountains, solo hiking through Arches National Park and more.