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Montana Braden

855

Bold Points

1x

Finalist

Bio

In my life, I have never sought out the well-trodden path. I believe full-heartedly in taking advantage of every unique experience, jumping on every insane opportunity, and doggedly pursuing every unfathomable dream. 'Bold' to me is just that: the tenacious pursuit of our beliefs in the face of adversity. I have traveled around the world, brushed shoulders with some of the most incredible people, and learned more about life in a few short years than I might have ever figured out without taking the opportunities I did. Although I didn't always meet my goals, I've learned that even when unsuccessful, the trying will still teach me something unforgettable. When I look forward to the rest of my life, to new experiences and struggles, I see myself using what I've learned to shape the world for the better. I believe that human beings have a responsibility to others: to improve our community, our world, and make the lives of others a little bit better than how we found them. It is because of my struggles and experiences that I see myself making a difference.

Education

Temple University

Bachelor's degree program
2021 - 2024
  • Majors:
    • Japanese Language and Literature
    • International Relations and Affairs

Vail Ski And Snowboard Academy (Vssa)

High School
2015 - 2019

Miscellaneous

  • Desired degree level:

  • Graduate schools of interest:

  • Transfer schools of interest:

  • Majors of interest:

    • International Relations and Affairs
    • Japanese Language and Literature
  • Not planning to go to medical school
  • Career

    • Dream career field:

      International Affairs

    • Dream career goals:

      Government and Diplomacy

    • Athletic Concierge

      East West
      2019 – Present5 years
    • Snowboard Instructor

      Vail Resorts at Beaver Creek
      2020 – Present4 years
    • Mini-shred Coach

      Ski and Snowboard Club Vail
      2019 – 20201 year

    Sports

    Snowboarding

    Club
    2014 – 20206 years

    Awards

    • 2017 Junior Women Overall National Champion
    • Supergirl Pro Snow Competitor
    • 2019 Junior World Championship Competitor
    • SSCV Female Snowboard Athlete of the Year 2015/16/17/18

    Future Interests

    Advocacy

    Politics

    Mechanism Fitness Matters Scholarship
    I received my high school diploma from the Vail Ski and Snowboard Academy in the spring of 2019. It's exactly what it sounds like: an academy made for current or aspiring professional snowsport athletes. It was one of the greatest experiences of my life; it taught me not only that it is necessary to stay active and healthy, but how to do so safely. Now that I've retired from being a full-time athlete and am pursuing several coaching certifications, being fit and healthy tends to be a little bit harder. I've noticed aches and pains that hadn't existed a few years ago, accelerated by bad falls, surgeries, and muscle memories that were great for competing, but not so great for my long-term muscular health. In the last year, I've had to switch my mindset from 'training for performance' to 'maintaining my muscular health for the rest of my life'. Although I wouldn't trade my years as a professional athlete for anything, the time since has been a difficult transition. While competing, the adrenaline was part of the reason I was able to get up in the morning and persevere through the pre-dawn practices, the snowstorms, and the freezing racing attire. Since then, I've had to take up less exciting activities, such as martial arts and swimming, in order to keep my cardiovascular health up. When I'm working out consistently, I notice my exercise-induced asthma becomes less bothersome, I feel better about my body, and I'm able to focus on other things in my life with less stress and anxiety. The strength I can achieve in my body helps me achieve the inner strength I need to tackle my work, personal life, and educational goals.