Colorado Senior Finds Purpose and Confidence Through School’s Outdoor Leadership Program

 For Destinations Career Academy of Colorado (CODCA) senior, Sarah Brekke, school isn’t something to get through; it’s something to look forward to. While many seniors are counting the months to graduation, Sarah feels energized, supported, and deeply connected, thanks to a unique blend of outdoor adventure, career exploration, and strong community. 

Sarah is an active member of CODCA’s Outdoor Leadership program, led by teacher Hunter Stafford, who has watched her grow into a confident and grounded leader. From backpacking through Herman’s Gulch to completing a Wilderness First Aid certification, Sarah says the course has changed the way she sees herself and her future. 

“Outdoor Leadership gave me a community,” she shared. “I’m excited about school because I feel like I’m part of something.” 

The program has become a defining part of her senior year, helping her build resilience, leadership skills, and friendships that have carried her through high school with purpose. 

A Love for the Outdoors That Runs Deep 

When she isn’t in class, Sarah can almost always be found outside. She has hiked Horsetooth, Arthur’s Rock, and even completed a 13er during CODCA’s backpacking trip, an experience she describes as challenging, unforgettable, and confidence-building. She’s also passionate about helping others experience the outdoors. Sarah volunteers with Outdoor Colorado, supporting youth fishing and hunting programs, an opportunity that blends service, mentorship, and her love for nature. 

Her connection to fishing is also personal. She previously competed with the Wildwest Bassmasters in which she qualified for the State of Colorado and moved on to fishing Nationals in Dayton, Tennessee. She competed in the Bassmasters High School series against 273 teams from all over the US and different countries. She was inspired by her uncle, who coached at Windsor High School. When Sarah transitioned to online learning, her parents helped launch Wildwest so she could keep pursuing the sport she loves, which paved the way for other online learners to join and explore fishing at a competitive level. 

Exploring Healthcare Through CODCA’s Medical Pathway 

Beyond the mountains and lakes, Sarah is equally committed to her future in healthcare. Through CODCA’s Medical Pathway, taught by Shari Bossmann, she participates in hands-on labs, including mobile clinical experiences and phlebotomy training. 

One moment she’ll never forget? Drawing her dad’s blood for the first time, only for him to joke with her letting out a little scream and scaring her. 

Experiences like these have helped solidify her interest in nursing and given her a head start on her career goals while still in high school. 

This year, Sarah plans to continue participating in Outdoor Leadership events while working toward her CMA certification. After graduation, she hopes to begin her nursing studies at Aims Community College before continuing at University of Northern Colorado (UNC) or University of Colorado Colorado Springs (UCCS.) 

Her motivation comes from a desire to help others and create a meaningful future grounded in service, compassion, and confidence. 

“Outdoor Leadership and the Medical Pathway helped me realize what I’m capable of,” Sarah said. “They showed me who I want to become.” 

CODCA is proud to celebrate students like Sarah who prove that learning can happen anywhere, and that when students are supported in their passions, they don’t just succeed, they thrive.