AmeriCorps made it possible for me to pursue my passion: environmental conservation. After serving as an officer in the Navy, I researched my options and came across VetsWork Environment, an AmeriCorps program at the Mt. Adams Institute. I was excited about the chance to serve my country in a different way. It provided me with the hands-on experience that I needed to advance in the environmental conservation field. I received a well-rounded skillset, and I'm now a Timber Resource Assistant with the United States Forest Service. My goal going forward is to educate other veterans about AmeriCorps so that they, too, can benefit from it just like I did.