Staff Spotlight – Jason Funk

I was born in New England and grew up in New Hampshire. My childhood was a lot of fun and I remember fond times spent with my family and friends hiking in the white mountains and summers on Lake Winnipesaukee swimming and boating. My dream as a kid growing up reading National Geographic magazines was to explore the world.

I guess it was no surprise that I chose to move out west to study anthropology in Arizona, to work at archaeological reserve in Belize for a summer and join the Peace Corps to serve in Ecuador. Recently I just finished a dual MA degree in International Studies and Environment & Natural Resources from the University of Wyoming in Laramie. I’m excited about joining the North Star community, getting to know the campers and staff, and sharing in exploring the outdoors as a trip leader.   

More About Jason

Your three favorite movies of all time: Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, Dances with Wolves, Back to the Future

What is your dream job: To be an explorer- full-time

Best place you’ve ever traveled to: Wind River Mountains in Wyoming

Favorite cartoon character: Wile E. Coyote

If you could have lunch with any two people, dead or alive, who would they be?: Layton Kor and Gary Nabhan are two individuals that I admire and find fascinating

How did you learn about North Star and why did you apply?: I found out about North Star through a NOLS internet job posting that I check regularly. I applied to be a wilderness trip leader at North Star for a few reasons: First, there are few things I enjoy doing more than giving back to youth through teaching, mentoring and sharing my knowledge about nature, wilderness travel and adventure sports.  Second, I was really impressed by the sense of community at North Star after talking with a few of the staff from camp.  Finally, I have never been to Wisconsin and hear lots of great things, so I’m excited to make my way out there for camp this summer!

What noteworthy/random/menial jobs have you held?: The most random job I have ever had was during high school working at a clothing department store (I won’t name which). Long story short, the job didn’t last long because I am mildly color blind and my ability to match clothing for display racks was not up to par… so if any staff or campers are reading this remember to not ask me about wardrobe choices that have to do with color because I likely won’t be much help.

What did you do last summer?: I backpacked in Peru for two months after Peace Corps Service in Ecuador.

What, if any previous camp experiences have you had?: I was a camper at Camp Belknap in New Hampshire on Lake Winnipesaukee as
a third grader. I am not ashamed to admit that I was a little bit home
sick during the first week, but by the time my parents came to pick me
up I remember not wanting to leave! When I was a bit older before
starting high school I went on a two week rock climbing intensive camp
with Outward bound in North Carolina. The two experiences really shaped
my love of the outdoors, camping outside, climbing rocks and mountains
as well as traveling and exploring.