I grew up in the Northeast Bronx, where the city was always alive—full of buildings, noise, and movement. Growing up, I saw more concrete than greenery, and nature wasn’t something I experienced often. My connection to it came through places like Seton Falls Park, where the woods offered a quiet break from the chaos. But even then, I never really worked with nature. It was something I passed by, not something I engaged with.

Most of what surrounded me was city life—sirens, crowded streets, and sometimes even crime. That was the reality. So getting the chance to step into something completely different this summer felt like a breath of fresh air.

Through the Summer Youth Employment Program, I interned with Bronx Green-Up at NYBG. It was my first time working outdoors in nature, and I learned so much. I got hands-on experience with weeding, planting vegetables, cleaning up garden beds, and prepping soil. I watched spaces transform from overgrown to thriving, and every day brought something new.

More than anything, this experience helped my mental wellbeing. Being outside, surrounded by plants and fresh air, gave me a sense of calm I didn’t expect. It helped me slow down, clear my mind, and feel more grounded. In a city that’s always rushing, those quiet moments in the garden felt like a reset.

And even though I didn’t grow up around gardening or outdoor work, this experience made me want to try new things. It was totally out of my comfort zone, but I’m glad I gave it a chance. Now I feel more open to stepping into unfamiliar spaces, learning new skills, and seeing where they take me.