Annika Ruben

B.S. Environmental Studies from The University of Vermont

Annika is originally from Boston, MA but most recently has been living in the magical desert of
northern New Mexico. After graduating high school Annika spent a semester with Dragons
exploring the mountains, rainforests, and cities of Peru and Bolivia. After seeing firsthand the
impact of climate change on different communities’ livelihoods, she decided to commit to
working towards a more just future, leading her to focus her studies on Environmental Design
at The University of Vermont.

While in college, Annika was able to nurture her passion for all things outdoors, most
specifically backcountry skiing, backpacking, and farming. While living in Vermont she worked
for a migrant justice organization and explored her passions for sustainable agriculture,
winemaking, and learning new languages. A semester abroad in Nepal allowed Annika to learn
Nepali and conduct research on women and climate-smart agriculture.

After graduating from UVM, Annika moved to the American Southwest where she has been
working as an outdoor educator in various settings. From working as an adaptive ski instructor
in the snowy peaks of Taos, to guiding backpacking trips for international high school students
in the humbling desert canyons of Arizona, she continues to see the power of place-based
experiential education. She is thrilled to now be working as a Dragons instructor and have the
opportunity to explore the vast landscapes and rich cultures of the American Southwest and
South America. Annika is eager to build relationships with students and learn more about
where they come from and what brings them joy in life.

Annika is WFR certified, a birth doula, a dancer, and a lover all things lavender.