UPDATE:
We are delighted to share that Diego Ruiz, has been awarded a Gilman Scholarship, a prestigious award for study abroad students funded by the US Department of State. Congrats, Diego!!
From Diego: “I am a Business major, in my sophomore year studying abroad in Salzburg , Austria. I am the only business student here for the entire year, so I am glad to represent the PSOB. A great quote that I enjoy reading is “twenty years from now you will be disappointed by the things you didn’t do than by the ones you did do” -Jackson Brown Jr
This quote pushes me to reach out of my comfort zone every day. Study abroad has been an experience that has helped me learn more about not only myself but also other people’s cultures and traditions. It has allowed me to tap into parts of my brain that I could have never imagined. Study abroad is a great experience for anyone who is interested in becoming a more well-rounded global citizen!”
Where are you currently located (as part of Study Abroad Program)?
Hello, I am Diego Ruiz! I am currently studying abroad in Salzburg, Austria through the UP study abroad program.
As well, I am the only business student participating in the Salzburg program through the entire school year so that makes me proud to be able to represent my fellow PSOB members!
What did you do this past Summer?
This past summer, I was doing Wildland Firefighting through 310 Dust Control. We were fighting the largest-ever wildfire in New Mexico HISTORY. The fire spanned over 340,000 acres and required personnel from all over the country. I believe the job is very lucrative and makes you feel good at the end of a hard day’s work.
How did you get tis apprenticeship?
I was able to participate by passing a few online classes through NWCG (National Wildfire Coordinating Group) and taking my physical PAC- test upon my arrival in Phoenix, Arizona!
Best Takeaways from your work over the Summer?
From my work over the summer, I had the opportunity to work with individuals from all over the country and even people who were located outside of the U.S. borders. This apprenticeship made for a very interesting work environment with all of the different personalities and backgrounds. I was learning new skills every hour of the day.
An important lesson I learned is that no matter the circumstance, stand for what is right and what you truly believe in at the end of the day. In this line of work, you run into guys who have been doing this for a long time and are not easy to sway in plans that they have made for crews. However, if there is something useful that needs to be heard, say it because you may benefit more people than you know!
