Greeley West Senior Ruben Flores had the chance to step up and inspire his classmates during a recent environmental science field trip. In front of more than 400 students from several schools, Fores delivered a message that left an impression on many.

“It felt a little nerve-wrecking because there were other schools as well,” Flores admitted. “But the nerves left as soon as I saw my friends. That was a bit relaxing.”

His speech focused on encouraging students to think about ways they could improve their communities and use innovation to make a difference. “The main message I wanted my classmates to take away was to find ways to make their communities better and how they can be innovators,” Flores explained.

The field trip, organized by environmental science teacher Ms. Corrine Loulies, gave students opportunities to explore careers in environmental science, talk with alumni, and take part in hands-on activities such as 3D printing, weather balloon launches, geothermal tours, and demonstrations on conserving water and reusing food containers.

For Flores, the experience wasn’t just about sharing a message with others, it was also about personal growth. “To put it simply, I learned how to be better at public speaking,” he said.

Classmate Alan Soto, was among those impacted by the speech. “I thought the speech that he gave was really good because it was inspiring and it influenced me to do more things that I haven’t really thought of doing.”