Student Staff Bios 2016 Bruin Woods

Student
Staff Bios
2016
Bruin
Woods
Adam Turney – Bear & Grill
Adam just finished his third year at UCLA and cannot wait to
begin his first summer at Bruin Woods! Adam is currently
majoring in Theater with a minor in Music Industry. He grew up
in Antioch, CA, a small suburb in the Bay Area. Growing up,
Adam enjoyed playing volleyball and participating in community
theater productions. Now, Adam is a member of the
ScatterTones on campus, where he gets to show his love of
performing. Adam aspires to be a professional singer and actor,
so look out for him in our opening and closing shows!
turneyal@ucla.edu
Aleksandra Vojvodic – Kids Group Rover
Aleksandra just completed her first year at UCLA and is majoring
in Business Economics with a minor in Cognitive Science. She
was born and raised in the Bay Area but is strongly tied to her
Serbian roots. Aleksandra has a passion for soccer and
gymnastics, the sports she grew up dedicating most of her time
to and eventually coaching. Her favorite flower is a daisy and
her favorite vegetables are green beans. At UCLA, Aleksandra is
a member of Chi Omega sorority, and is involved in Message in
a Melody, an organization fighting against pediatric cancer and
emphasizing the healing power of music. She is also a
marketing director for the Electronic Design and Music
Collective. Aleksandra’s love for music, dancing and laughter
drew her into Bruin Woods, and its endless beauty and magic made her stay!
avojvodic@ucla.edu
Alex Gray – Bear & Grill
Alex just finished up her first year at UCLA and can’t wait to
serve up some burgers for you all at the Bear and Grill! She was
born and raised in Danville, CA by two lovely Bruin parents. Alex
played competitive lacrosse though all of high school and is now
very active in her sorority, Alpha Phi. She is undeclared within
the social sciences, considering majors including
communications and sociology. She hopes to work in marketing
or advertising someday.
alexgray02@gmail.com
Alex Hammer – Kodiak Counselor
Alex just finished his second year at UCLA and cannot wait to
continue his Bruin Woods adventures! He will be working as a
Kodiak counselor and is about to burst with excitement for this
coming summer. Alex is currently an Economics major and
considering double majoring with Political Science. He’s from
the heart of Silicon Valley and grew up in sunny Palo Alto, CA.
Alex is interested in almost everything, from biology to music to
sports to politics. After he finishes UCLA, he is hoping to go into
either tech or politics. Alex grew up going to a camp similar to
Bruin Woods, which just makes him even more excited for the
summer and he’s stoked to come back for his second summer!
He cannot wait to meet the Kodiaks and the rest of the
campers! alexander.j.hammer@gmail.com
Alexandra Hepps – Art & Crafts
Ali just finished her first year at UCLA studying cognitive science.
From Calabasas, California, she was a recurring winter session
camper and is so thrilled to be returning to Lake Arrowhead for
Bruin Woods summer 2016 as Arts & Crafts staff! Ali is a fourth
generation Bruin, following practically her dad’s entire side of
the family. She grew up playing the piano and immediately
discovered her love for singing. Ali aspires to study/research
music therapy and hopes to work with children and elderly
people with degenerative mental disorders! When she’s not
busy being STOKED for Bruin Woods summer 2016, you can find
her singing with her a cappella group, the ScatterTones! Let’s
get artsy! alihepps@yahoo.com
Amy Clement – Bear & Grill
Amy cannot wait to start her first summer at Bruin Woods
hanging out in the Bear & Grill! She just finished her sophomore
year in the School of Theater, Film and Televisions’ directing
program. Amy is one of the producers for Act III Student
Theater Ensemble, the representative for her class on the
Undergraduate Theater Council, and an active member of Chi
Omega sorority. After her time at UCLA, she hopes to pursue a
career in the entertainment industry but is not sure whether
that means film, theater, or even entertainment law. Amy was
born and raised in New Orleans, LA but is beyond excited to
make Bruin Woods her home away from home this summer!
amy.clement@ucla.edu
Annikah Good – Grizzly Counselor
Annikah just finished her third year at UCLA, and is majoring in
Business Economics. She was born in Claremont, CA and grew
up just one block away from the Claremont Colleges. Previously
an engineering major, Annikah has always been interested in
tech and science, and she loves all things outdoors. She also
works at UCLA as a campus tour guide! She hopes to go into
consulting or marketing, and she also has a passion for real
estate. Annikah grew up going to a camp similar to Bruin
Woods, and she could not be more excited to spend her third
summer here as a Grizzly counselor! annikahgood@g.ucla.edu
Ari Simon – Outdoor Adventure Director
Ari is so excited to be able to spend his 3rd summer at Bruin
Woods returning as the Outdoor Adventures Director! He can’t
believe he just finished his senior year as an Ecology, Behavior,
and Evolution major with a minor in Spanish. He will officially
finish his college career in Monteverde, Costa Rica in the fall
doing ecological research in the tropical rainforest. He aims to
one day pursue a career in medicine. Born and raised in Los
Angeles, to Robert, a physician, and UCLA alum, and Celine, an
alum of that other school, he was fortunate enough to attend
Bruin Woods for the past 18 years as a camper with his triplet
brother and sister, Asher and Anijke. This home away from
home has sparked his deep love for the outdoors. An Eagle
Scout, he has been all over California and the United States camping, hiking, and backpacking.
At UCLA, he works as the head student computer technician for UCLA Undergraduate
Admission and is a member of Zeta Beta Tau Fraternity. He can’t wait to return to the
mountains of Arrowhead! More than anything, he wants you to have the best week of your life
this summer at Bruin Woods! arisimon2@aol.com
Austin Newton – Polar Counselor
Austin is a second-year Business Economics major (and firstsummer counselor!) raised in Monrovia, California with two
siblings: his older brother Davis and his dog Abby. In his free
time, Austin enjoys playing tennis, watching classic movies, and
taking advantage of LA’s concert scene. On campus he can be
found volunteering as a Cub Tour Guide for younger kids visiting
UCLA, researching stocks as an Analyst for Bruin Asset
Management, and brainstorming icebreakers in preparation for
his role as a Resident Assistant on the Hill next year. Austin is
currently a member of the Dean’s Honors List.
austincnewton@yahoo.com
Berkley Price – Aquatics
Berkley Price is a fourth year International Studies major with a
minor in Japanese. He was born in Stockton and raised in the
neighboring small town of Lodi, California. In his words his
family is “pretty awesome.” He enjoys spending time near and
in the water playing water polo, swimming, scuba diving, driving
boats, and honing his breath holding skills. He’s a third
generation member of the Lambda Chi Alpha fraternity, where
he has served as social chair and recruitment chair, is a UCLA
campus tour guide, and an amateur juggler. He was involved in
the Boy Scouts of America for 11 years, and earned the Eagle
Scout award at age 13. This summer he is working as a pool
staff member and is extremely excited to return for his third
summer at Bruin Woods and looks forward to making some incredible memories.
berkprice@gmail.com
Bess Grode – Kids Group Director
Bess is a fourth year biology major with an interest in pursuing
graduate school with an emphasis in mental health advocacy.
Bess is so excited to be returning for her third summer as Kids’
Group Director. Growing up in sunny Camarillo, she attended
soccer, swim, water polo, and day camps with her three sisters.
Bess cherishes the fun memories she’s made with her sisters at
summer camps, and she’s stoked to be a part of the amazing
memories your family makes at Bruin Woods!
bessgrode@ucla.edu
Brandon Dekema – Boating
Brandon is a junior Political Science major, who’s getting to
spend his first summer at the greatest camp on Earth. Raised in
a tiny town called Angel Fire, New Mexico, Brandon grew up
with a love for both adventure and the outdoors. Coming from
a mountain town, he has skied and snowboarded for 17 years,
and even became the President of the Ski and Board Club at
UCLA. When he wasn’t engrossed reading his favorite fantasy
novels, Brandon also played soccer for 18 years, before coaching
local Angel Fire youth teams post-graduation.
brandondekema9@gmail.com
Brett Camacho – Boating
Brett just finished his second year as a Bruin and is pumped for
Bruin Woods! He will be working this summer on the boating
staff and can’t wait to take the guests out wakeboarding,
waterskiing and knee boarding! Brett is currently studying
Mechanical Engineering and Economics. He was born and
raised in Burbank, California and is interested in sports and
science. While he doesn’t know what he wants to do after
college, he is exploring the areas of innovative science and
production! Brett has been waiting for the summer for a long
time, and can’t wait to get some guests out on the water to
shred the gnar! camachobrett40@gmail.com
Carling Farley – Fishing
It’s Carling’s third summer as a staffer at Bruin Woods and she
can hardly believe it. How time flies! Carling just graduated this
year from UCLA with degrees in Political Science and French, but
has yet to secure employment, and would love to chat with any
interested parents! Carling hopes to pursue employment in the
field of PR or publicity, and dabbles with interests in
entertainment, fashion, law, and languages. This past year, she
served as the Spring Sing Company Director for the Student
Alumni Association, UCLA’s oldest musical tradition that
attracted an audience of 9000 people. She also remained
closely involved with her sorority, Chi Omega. Although Carling
grew up in London, her parents recently moved back to the East
Coast, and while they’re aching for her to move over there, Carling decided she can’t detach
herself from sunny Southern California! cfarley1@g.ucla.edu
Cash Cashell – Grizzly Counselor
Cash is beyond excited to be returning for his third summer at
Bruin Woods. Cash spends his time waiting for the summer at
UCLA studying Environmental Science as a senior, being
involved on campus as a tour guide for the office of
undergraduate admissions, and as part of the Pediatric AIDS
Coalition at UCLA. Coming all the way from Texas, Cash
considers Bruin Woods his home away from home. Passionate
about the environment, Cash loves spending so much time
outdoors here at Lake Arrowhead. ycashell2@g.ucla.edu
Charles Bieler – Aquatics
Charles just finished his second year at UCLA and is majoring in
Mechanical Engineering. He was born and raised in San Diego,
CA. Growing up, Charles enjoyed swimming, surfing, and
basketball. Charles will be working on pool staff, and cannot be
more excited for the upcoming summer. Charles is a taco
aficionado and enjoys long walks on the beach with his dog.
bielerc99@gmail.com
Charlie Reinhart – Bear & Grill
A fourth year majoring in Fine Arts with a minor in Music
Industry, Charlie Reinhart is excited to return to Bruin Woods.
He is a 3rd year staff member and a former Week 7 camper. An
Eagle Scout, Charlie loves the outdoors, especially the ocean.
He fondly recalls many happy days spent at the beaches near his
home in Palos Verdes with parents, brother Andy, and friends.
He is a proud member of the Sigma Chi fraternity, currently
serving as its peer counselor. His passions are ceramics, travel,
music, and any type of sport. creicod4@hotmail.com
Dakota Wilson – Kids Group Rover
Dakota is an upcoming senior, majoring in Communication
Studies. He was raised in Lake Elsinore, California. He played
varsity football, basketball, and baseball and was an eleventime varsity letterman and athlete of the year four straight
years. Dakota was homeschooled from kindergarten until 9th
grade and was valedictorian in high school. Dakota enjoys
playing sports, weight lifting, and has a black belt in Tae-KwonDo and Karate. He finished an internship at Fox Sports this year,
working with the amazingly talented Jay Dohner who is a Bruin
Woods guest. He does not know what profession he wants to
go into but is looking for a career after his senior year, so if
anyone wants to help with that he would be very appreciative.
He is in Lambda Chi Alpha fraternity and is their events coordinator. Currently, Dakota is a
UCLA Bear Wear model and is in the Alumni Scholars Club and Pediatric AIDS Coalition (PAC) on
campus. dkotawilson0333@yahoo.com
David Gallop – Boating
David just graduated from UCLA with a major in
Communications Studies and is currently pursuing a career in
the advertising/public relations industry. Growing up, David
enjoyed playing soccer, learning about astronomy, and working
with kids at a local theater camp. David is happy to be a third
generation Bruin graduate, following his father and
grandmother before him. During his free time, David enjoys
playing guitar and pick up soccer. He was a Bruin Woods
camper for 10 years, and he could not be happier to return for
his third summer as a staffer. Currently jobless but ever the
optimist, David looks forward to the mysteries that postgrad life
holds. davidgallop@aol.com
Elliot Dean – Fishing
Heralding from the beautiful San Francisco Bay Area, Elliot just
finished his first year at UCLA and is a first time counselor here
at Bruin Woods. He’s spent every summer since he was two
months old fishing and frolicking on a lake in upstate New York,
so he is overjoyed to have the opportunity to continue the fun
at Lake Arrowhead this summer. A top notch angler himself,
Elliot will be a fishing guide for us this summer. Back on
campus, Elliot is pursuing a degree in Statistics. He is also an
avid basketball player and helps workout the UCLA Woman’s
Basketball team on his free time. Whether you’re out on a
fishing trip or just hanging around, anytime spent with Elliot is
sure to be “off the hook.” edean@g.ucla.edu
Emma Gallagher – Polar Counselor
Emma is a third year, second-summer POLAR COUNSELOR!!!!
She grew up in Charleston, SC, playing soccer, boating and
loving the beach! Now she lives in Marin County, where she
gained her love of hiking, running and exploring. At UCLA, her
major is Human Biology and Society, which connects medicine,
health, and politics to facilitate social justice. Outside of class,
she serves as the Chief Panhellenic Officer of Kappa Alpha
Theta, is a member of Greek Crossing, and conducts selfdirected research about college experiences. Emma is
incredibly honored to be with her favorite kids group
(POLARS!!!) and expects nothing less than the best summer
EVER!!! Never hesitate to say hello because she loves a good
conversation! Suggested conversation topics: thrift stores, vegan ice cream, the meaning of
life, and Sparkles the Dolphin. emmagallagher@ucla.edu
Eric Poincenot – Kids Group Rover
Eric is beyond stoked to return to Bruin Woods this summer as
a Kids Group Rover! This is Eric’s 15th year at Bruin Woods, but
he knows this is going to be the best one yet! Eric just finished
his 3rd year at UCLA, studying Mechanical Engineering. Eric
hopes to pursue a career in engineering once he finishes his
fourth and final year next year. Outside of his studies, Eric is a
member of the Sigma Phi Epsilon fraternity and enjoys playing
on their IM volleyball team. Eric was born and raised in the
sunny San Diego beach town of Encinitas, CA, so he knows that
nothing beats spending summer in the sun and on the water,
be it at the beach or Arrowhead! ericpoincenot@yahoo.com
Gabby Sered – Outdoor Activities Rover
Hello Bruin Woods! Gabby is going to be a third year at UCLA
and is a communications major. This is her first summer at
Bruin Woods and she is so excited to see all your smiling faces!
Gabby, while majoring in Communications is hoping to minor in
Education and wants to become a principal at a high school.
Gabby is best friends with her family and extremely close with
all of them. Her twin, Katie, is also working at Bruin Woods!
She is on the UCLA cross country team, a member of Sustainable
Youth Club, a Rotary Scholar, a member of the sorority Kappa
Alpha Theta, and since starting UCLA has been on the UCLA
Directors Honor Roll for academic excellence.
gabriellesered@g.ucla.edu
Genevieve Zimmerman – Kodiak Counselor
Genevieve is going into her fourth year at UCLA double
majoring in World Arts & Culture and Communications Studies.
She was born and raised up in Berkeley, California where her
mother went to school. She grew up in a large family of seven
children and has always had a passion for childcare. Genevieve
has participated in theater and dance productions for twelve
years and played volleyball in high school. She is currently the
event chairman of her sorority, Kappa Kappa Gamma, as well as
a member of Hillel. Outside of UCLA she is a yoga enthusiast
and interns with a variety of entertainment and PR companies.
gennzimm@gmail.com
Grant Colin – Outdoor Activities Rover
Grant just finished his second year as an Economics Major with
a Spanish minor. An avid sports fan, he plays basketball
frequently on his fraternity’s backyard court and has taught
swimming lessons for folks of all ages and abilities. He also
explores his passion for music through playing guitar and
ukulele, and loves singing vocal bass for his a cappella group
YOUTHphonics A Cappella. This summer will be Grant’s third at
Bruin Woods – he came for one summer as a UCLA-bound high
school graduate, and became a counselor the very next year.
He can’t wait for another phenomenal summer! Go Bruins!
gcolin@ucla.edu
Hailey James – Athletic Director
Hailey is ready for her third year at Bruin Woods! You might
have seen her driving boats on the lake or staying groovy at the
B&G last year, but watch out because this year she will be
cruising all over camp as your Athletic Director! When she is
back in Los Angeles, she is working towards her psychology
degree and loving every second of it. Born and raised in Tustin,
California, Hailey loves spending time in the So Cal sun. She is
actively involved in Kappa Alpha Theta sorority at UCLA and she
is a staffer for LA Ski and Snowboard Club, always ready for an
adventure. As an avid sports fan, Hailey stays active playing
basketball, soccer, beach volleyball and absolutely loves hiking
around those hidden Los Angeles trails. Most importantly, she
is SO PUMPED to make her last summer the best one yet! haileyjames@g.ucla.edu
Hannah Clarke – Arts & Crafts
Hannah just finished her sophomore year at UCLA. She is
majoring in dance and minoring in disability studies. Hannah
grew up in San Luis Obispo, CA (aka “Happiest City in America”
according to Oprah) with her parents and older sister who
recently graduated from UCLA as a track star! In her free time,
you might see Hannah dancing the night away, but more likely
you’ll just see her making lanyards and BISQUE. At UCLA,
Hannah works as an usher at Royce Hall. This year, she has also
enjoyed acting as sisterhood chair for Chi Omega. More
importantly, let’s get crafty!! hannahclarke2014@gmail.com
Hannah Connery – Bruin Counselor
Hannah is thrilled to be spending a summer with the best group
in the woods, the Bruins! Raised in the flatlands of Oklahoma,
Hannah is very thankful for Lake Arrowhead’s geographic
diversity. At UCLA, Hannah performs in shows, serves as an
Ambassador for the School of Theater, Film, and Television, and
is a member of Chi Omega sorority. As a third year Acting
major, Hannah aspires to work in the Entertainment Industry
both as a performer and behind the scenes. In her spare time,
Hannah enjoys dancing for joy, laughing uncontrollably, and
counting down the days until the summer (thank goodness the
wait is over – she ran out of fingers ages ago)!
hconnery@ucla.edu
Hannah Park – Cub Counselor
Hannah is a fourth year Biology major originally from Fulton,
Maryland. She is unbelievably STOKED to return for her third
summer at Bruin Woods as a Cub Counselor (C-U-B-S! C-U-BS!)! Kids are her favorite thing in the world, with children
coming in at a close second. During the school year, she teaches
a children’s public health education class in low-income areas of
Los Angeles, conducts medical research with the Center of
Outcomes Research and Education at Cedars-Sinai Hospital, and
is an active member of Kappa Alpha Theta. In her spare time,
she loves surfing, hiking, coaching kids in sports, and spending
time with her Bruin Woods family. After graduation, she hopes
to continue her career in Public Health!
hannahpark24@gmail.com
Jake Dvorsky – Cub Counselor
Jake is an up and coming third-year actor in UCLA’s School of
Theater, Film, and Television and is THRILLED to be this year’s
Cub counselor at Bruin Woods! He was born in Malibu,
California and spent his childhood on the beach teaching surf
lessons. A California Arts Scholar, Jake wishes to be a working
actor on stage and camera with the hopes of one day owning a
theater company in pursuit of sparking political and social
change. In the meantime, you can catch him doing comedy,
belly-flopping, and being a DJ on UCLARadio.com. Not to
mention, he is studying abroad in Ireland in the fall!
jake@dvorsky.com
Joseph Healow – Bruin Counselor
Joey just finished his second year at UCLA, and is ecstatic about
being a Bruin Woods Counselor this summer. Growing up in
Sacramento, he fostered a love of the outdoors through
watersports, fishing, and camping – a love that he can’t wait to
share with guests. Joey will be a Bruin counselor, taking on a
wide array of adventures and activities with his groups of 2nd
and 3rd graders. Back at UCLA, he studies Mechanical
Engineering and is a proud member of the club waterski team.
Joey’s beyond excited to be here this summer, if you have any
questions don’t hesitate to strike up a conversation!
Joseph.healow@gmail.com
Julia Seaton – Outdoor Activities Rover
Julia is an incoming senior at UCLA, where she studies
Communications and Anthropology. She grew up in Cupertino
(the heart of the Silicon Valley!) with her parents, sister, and
beloved family cat. After years of playing field hockey in high
school, she carried her competitiveness to UCLA where she
served for two years as a team member and captain of the club
lacrosse team. This past year Julia shifted gears from sports,
joining the Bruin Advertising & Marketing Team and Pediatric
AIDS Coalition (PAC). As the incoming Director of Strategic
Planning on Bruin AdTeam, Julia hopes to pursue a future in
marketing, but for now, Bruin Woods is just the place for her
and she can’t wait to rove the outdoors with all of you!
seaton.jules827@gmail.com
Katie Harmeyer – Boating
Katie is so excited to work this summer on the boating staff!
She is well versed in waterfront adventure, navigating lakes
since she was born. Entering her fourth year as a Biology major,
she aims to one day start her own research laboratory. She has
worked as a research assistant in various labs, from UCLA to
even Australia. She was raised in La Jolla, surfing, eating
burritos, and developing a love of the outdoors. Her younger
sister also attends UCLA (Go Bruins!). She is a member of the
Pediatric AIDS Coalition and Kappa Alpha Theta sorority. She is
known to tell a good story, is a Pisces, and has a love of belly
flopping. katherineharmeyer@gmail.com
Katie Sered – Teddy Counselor
Katie is going into her third year at UCLA. She is absolutely
stoked to be a Teddy Counselor this summer and to work with
all the fun kiddos!! This is her first year as a Bruin Woods
counselor and she could not be more excited! Katie is majoring
in Communications or Sociology with a minor in Education. She
wants to become a professor! Katie is super close with her
family and is even a triplet (look through the bios and you will
see her twin sister!!) Katie runs on the UCLA cross country and
track teams, is a proud member of her sorority Kappa Alpha
Theta, a member of Sustainable Youth (to teach young students
the value of going green), and is on the UCLA’s Director’s Honor
Roll. Can’t wait for the best summer ever!!
katherinesered@g.ucla.edu
Lauren Hearne – Kodiak Counselor
Lauren will be returning for her second summer and is beyond
stoked to be spending this time after graduation hanging out
with the kookiest and (k)oolest 4th and 5th graders! Leaving
UCLA with a degree in Global Studies and a minor in
Environmental Systems and Society, Lauren looks forward to a
future career in International Marketing/Sales or Environmental
Strategy. Lauren has travelled to twelve countries, studied
abroad twice, and loves adventuring, but would still say Lake
Arrowhead is the best place on earth. Raised in Camarillo,
Lauren now calls Los Angeles home where she spends her time
exploring the urban/natural environments and finding places
with good art and food. Speaking of food, nothing makes
Lauren happier than a great pairing of Oreos and peanut butter. . . . . oh and pizza lunch at
Bruin Woods deserves a shout out here too!
Luke Hoffman – Fishing
Luke recently graduated as a Biochemistry major at UCLA. He is
working as a fishing guide this summer and this is his third year
working at Bruin Woods. Luke is the middle of 5 brothers and
grew up in Camarillo, CA. His favorite sports are soccer and
rugby and he currently plays as a fullback for the UCLA rugby
team. During his free time Luke enjoys taking his youngest
brother out deep sea fishing and skiing on Mammoth Mountain.
Come out fishing with Luke and you will be sure to have a great
time! lukehoffmann43@gmail.com
Madison Colli – Aquatics
Maddy just finished her second year at UCLA and is hoping to
major in Communications Studies. She is from Palos Verdes,
California. In high school, Maddy enjoyed playing soccer,
running cross country, and learning all things Disney (still does!).
Maddy is proud to be a third generation Bruin, continuing the
legacy of her mom and grandparents. She is uber excited to
work her first summer at Bruin Woods!
maddycolli@hotmail.com
Megan Hoffman – Frontier Village
Howdy! This year, Megan returns to Bruin Woods for a second
summer as the cowgirl! Megan just completed her second year
at UCLA as an Economics major and hopes to minor in
Entrepreneurship. Born and raised in northern California,
Megan grew up raising farm animals with her sister, a UCLA
alumna, fishing, hunting, and camping. As the child of two
Bruins, Megan was brought up to love everything UCLA, so it
was no surprise when she joined approximately 30 million
organizations at UCLA. Megan is currently a member of Delta
Gamma sorority, Homecoming Committee, YOUTHphonics A
Cappella, and the Student Alumni Association. She looks
forward to being an RA in the dorms this fall and hopes this
week is the best time of your lives! mghoffman96@gmail.com
Mitchell Bendersky - Fishing
Mich is ecstatic because he just graduated with a
Communications Studies degree! As a first generation American
and transfer student, Mitch has spent his two years at UCLA
being part of the Advertising/Marketing Team, joining Theta Chi
fraternity, studying abroad in Dublin, co-founding a club, and
working at the best summer camp ever! Obsessed with film and
television, Mitch hopes to work in entertainment after summer,
and is always curious to learn more about show business! Mitch
can’t wait to have the best time ever as a returner and a fishing
guide, and hopes to make some big waves this summer!
mitchellbendersky@gmail.com
Nick Kunze – Fishing
Nick is an incoming junior English major and this is his first
summer as a Bruin Woods counselor! Hailing from the wild
woods of Connecticut suburbia, Nick has relocated to California
in a desperate attempt to escape the changing of the seasons.
The younger of two brothers, Nick is extremely involved at UCLA
as the recruitment chair of Lambda Chi Alpha and director of
Public Relations for Campus Events Commission. He is a huge
fan of reading, writing, and films, and hopes to work in writing
or entertainment, if his dreams of being a professional rodeo
clown don’t pan out. nkunze@ucla.edu
Nicolette Norgaard – Aquatics
Nicolette “Nico” just completed her first year at UCLA as a
Musical Theatre major and is thrilled to combine those skills
with her love for kids this summer! She is also stoked to work
on pool staff and accumulate even more freckles than she
already has. Nico grew up in the Bay Area, but many of her
most treasured memories are from attending summer camp
in the Santa Cruz Mountains. In her crazy first year at the
best university in the world, Nico was involved in seven
theatre productions as a performer, director, music director,
and composer. Additionally, Nico enjoys teaching spinning
classes, running, dancing, reading, writing music, and playing
various instruments. norgaardnicolette@gmail.com
Olivia London – Aquatics
Meet Olivia! She just finished her 3rd year as a Musical Theater
major at UCLA. This is her second summer working at Bruin
Woods and she couldn’t be more excited to be back! She was
abroad fall quarter studying theater in London and this past
spring was in UCLA’s TFT production of “Carousel”. She is in an
A Cappella group on campus called “Random Voices”. Her
group was just on an episode of “Bones” on FOX and got to sing
with Pentatonix! She’s also obsessed with Hamilton: The
Musical, so if you ever want to sing or rock out to some
Hamilton, she’s the girl to go to! olondon@ucla.edu
Ryan Peabody - Program Director
Ryan studied Economics and is a graduating senior at UCLA.
Born in Sacramento, California, Ryan grew up on a farm with his
sister and parents. He played several sports, earning varsity
letters in five different sports. He enjoys the outdoors and is an
avid fly-fisher, scuba diver, and skier. He joined Sigma Chi and is
the Philanthropy, Alumni, and Sorority Relations Chairs for his
fraternity. Ryan played for the UCLA Rugby Team his freshman
year and currently handles all of the marketing for Red Bull
around UCLA. He will be taking on a role as an investment
advisor in Manhattan Beach in September.
Rpeabody2@gmail.com
Sabrina Zeigler – Arts & Crafts
Sabrina is going into her fourth year at UCLA as a Political
Science major with a Society and Genetics minor. She is the
current Internal Vice President within USAC at UCLA, as well as
involved in many other pockets of campus. She is from the very
small town of Sebastopol, CA and learned how to drive a tractor
before she learned how to drive a car. This is her second
summer at Bruin Woods, and she is so excited to be in Arts and
Crafts this year! She loves to swim, goofy dance, make lanyards,
and surf. szeigler@ucla.edu
Savannah Krause – Teen Counselor
Savannah’s back at it again for her second summer and could
not be more excited to be hanging out with the Teens!
Originally from Tustin, Savannah is going into her third year as a
Communications major and Food Studies minor (NOM). Aside
from Bruin Woods, she is also a part of Chi Omega, the Pediatric
AIDS Coalition and is a campus tour guide. Ever since starting
out as a Week 8 Cub, Bruin Woods has been the highlight of her
summer and she knows this will be the best summer yet!
krause.savannah@gmail.com
Scott Snow – Polar Counselor
Scott could not be more excited to start his first summer at
Bruin Woods! A junior majoring in Physics and Philosophy, he
falls in love with UCLA more and more each day, and thinks
joining the Bruin Woods family will be the best part yet. Scott
grew up in London, England, and Carlsbad, California. Before
starting college he took a gap year to travel the world, and loves
to learn and meet new people! Scott is on the UCLA D1 Track
Team, part of a wonderful family of four, and the newest Polar
counselor! ssnowuk@gmail.com
Spencer Martin – Teen Counselor
Spencer is a rising third year Musical Theater student at UCLA.
This is his first year at Bruin Woods, and he could not be more
excited to share his summer with such incredible guests and
staff members! Born and raised in Orange County, California,
Spencer learned at a young age that sunburns hurt and that
avocados are delicious. Spencer spends his free time drumming
and singing (most notably to the musical stylings of Led Zeppelin
and the Backstreet Boys). When Spencer was 10 years old, his
goal was to be a professional pogo-sticker. Currently, Spencer is
aiming to perform professionally in theatre or film, though
pogo-sticking still remains his last-ditch fallback plan. Some
other hobbies of Spencer’s include making music, reading plays,
and eating Ben & Jerry’s ice cream. He is tremendously stoked to share laughs and make
memories with all of the campers this summer! sdouglasmartin@gmail.com
Stefan Orosco – Bruin Counselor
Stefan is finishing his second year at UCLA and is majoring in
Applied Physics with a minor in Mathematics. He was born and
raised in Southern California (Temecula). Growing up, Stefan
enjoyed playing football and trying to figure out the “kick flip”.
When Stefan isn’t in class he’s tutoring students in Physics and
Math or working with his engineering club on their Hyperloop
pod design. As a first year Bruin counselor, Stefan couldn’t be
more excited to get the summer started! Stefan aspires to
attend graduate school in Applied Physics or Aerospace
Engineering and conduct research in fusion energy or space
propulsion. oroscogold@gmail.com
Taryn Estébez – Kids Group Rover
Taryn graduated with honors this past spring, with a degree in
Environmental Studies and Public Health. She was raised in San
Francisco in a small but bustling household, where the door was
always open, and thirds were always encouraged. She sings
classical music, and was captain of the UCLA women’s club
soccer team. She has worked with UCLA’s branches of the
nonprofits AFYA, which redistributes unused medical supplies,
Food Recovery Network, which redistributes food waste, and
Peer Health Exchange, where she taught 9th grade health
education. Taryn loves making recycled art, dancing, and
believes laughter is essential to health.
tarynestebez@gmail.com
Taylor Lee – Art & Crafts
Taylor is a second year Communications and Economics double
major, with a passion for film. She grew up in the Bay Area,
raised by Trojan parents but is a true Bruin at heart. This is her
first summer at Bruin Woods, and she couldn’t be more thrilled
to be working in Arts & Crafts! When she’s not debating
international politics at Model UN or keeping track of finances
for Kappa Delta sorority, you can find Taylor doing the worm on
the dance floor or playing Beethoven on the piano.
taylornlee@ymail.com
Tyler Simpson – Teddy Counselor
Ohh Boy! Tyler is ecstatic to be returning this summer as a
Teddy Bear counselor! Born and raised in Encinitas, a beach
community in San Diego, Tyler has many great memories
spending time with his three younger brothers. Tyler has just
finished his third year at UCLA, studying History with plans of
pursuing Teaching. His history knowledge will prove to be the
perfect tool for restless kids during Teddy hibernation this
upcoming summer. Tyler enjoys listening to music, reading,
thrift shopping, knock-knock jokes, and rooting for the San
Diego Chargers! Tyler is an active member of the social
fraternity Lambda Chi Alpha where he has served on the
executive board. tylersimpson526@gmail.com
Wesley Hartmann – Frontier Village
Wes is incredibly excited to spend his first summer at Bruin
Woods as the Cowboy at Frontier Village! He was born and
raised in the town of Redding in Northern California where he
spent his free time kayaking on Whiskeytown Lake or running
the Sacramento River Trail. Wes loves working with kids and
has spent his last three summers as a swim teacher. At UCLA,
Wes just finished his second year majoring in Mathematics of
Computation. Post-graduation, he hopes to attend grad school
and hopes to eventually go into research. For now, Wes is
pumped to be at Bruin Woods and hopes you are too!
wes.hartmann@casc.net
Willem Van Den Bosch – Bear & Grill
Hailing from the great country of the Netherlands, Willem is a
Political Science and Economics student finishing up his second
year at UCLA. Passionate about understanding the world,
Willem is an enthusiast of fine cuisine, long walks on the beach,
and Boston sports teams. Willem is starting work at the
Undergraduate Writing Center in the fall and aspires to be a
political journalist or work in finance after grad school. Working
at the Bear & Grill this summer, Willem is a first year counselor
who can’t wait for the summer! willemvdb7@gmail.com
BRUIN WOODS MANAGEMENT
Steve Caloca – Director, UCLA Lake Arrowhead
Steve Caloca is the director of UCLA Lake Arrowhead. Steve is a
native of San Jose, California and currently resides in Lake
Arrowhead. After many years in the hotel business, Steve has
found the true definition of ‘hospitality’ here at UCLA Bruin
Woods. Steve loves to mountain bike, kayak, and read
(especially anything about Abraham Lincoln). Steve is a member
of the Lake Arrowhead Rotary Club, and a board member of the
UCLA Mountain Bruins – UCLA’s local alumni association. On
behalf of the UCLA Lake Arrowhead Family, Steve welcomes you
to Bruin Woods 2016! Go Bruins!
Dylan Matteson – BRUIN WOODS Director
Dylan Matteson has been with Bruin Woods for 11 summers;
working for 3 years as a student staffer and the last 8 years on
the management side of BW. He graduated UCLA in 2009 with a
degree in Economics and a minor in Labor and Workplace
Studies. While in college, he was a member of the UCLA Rowing
team, Spring Sing Company, and the UCLA Advertising and
Marketing Team. Bruin Woods is not simply a part of life to
Dylan, but Bruin Woods is life. He even got married at Bruin
Woods a year ago to fellow alumna Stephanie. Bruin Woods
truly is a magical place, and Dylan is excited and ready to make
this summer the best this camp has ever seen. Dylan looks
forward to meeting each and every one of you. Let’s have some
fun! Go Bruins!
Burke Walton – BRUIN WOODS Manager
Burke returns this summer as the Bruin Woods Manager for
what will be his 5th summer at Bruin Woods. He was a student
staffer from 2009-2011 and was on BW Management in 2012.
Burke graduated from UCLA in 2011 with a BA in Theater. While
at UCLA, he was a member of UCLA’s only all male A-Cappella
group Bruin Harmony, a Brother of the Sigma Alpha Epsilon
Fraternity, and a frequent performer in the shows put on by the
UCLA School of Theater, Film, and Television. However,
throughout his time at UCLA he had the most fun up here in
Lake Arrowhead as a Bruin Woods student staffer. Over the
past few years, Burke has performed on many stages in Los
Angeles, CA and Denver, CO – but for the majority of the past
year, he was sailing the Caribbean working as a Mainstage Performer for Disney Cruise Line
aboard the beautiful Disney Fantasy! He cannot wait to meet you all! Go Bruins!