Lauren Gette-King
Lauren was raised hiking and halibut-fishing in south-central Alaska. She has a B.A. in Languages that she has put to good use. After graduating, she began working as a Spanish teacher for grades K-12 in the Matanuska-Susitna Borough in Alaska. In 2015, Lauren led a group of middle school students to Puerto Rico and fell in love with the island, so much so that she decided to move there! She lived an adventurous year there hiking, swimming, kayaking, working on farms and in hostels, and speaking Spanish. Over the last four years, Lauren continued exploring the Caribbean, leading delegations to Cuba regarding health and sustainability. Lauren has also led field programs for teens in Ecuador/the Galapagos islands and Alaska. Recently, she has been teaching Spanish courses at Montana State University and began a graduate program in Global Public Health. She is excited to get off the computer and back into the field to explore Latin America once again.
Where did you grow up?
Palmer, Alaska
Where do you call home now?
Helena, Montana
Year started at Global Works?
2020
What’s your favorite part about leading trips?
Getting to know each participant and discovering their potential. Students always amaze me!
What is something you can’t live without while you are traveling?
Chapstick, Chacos, and a good book
Tell us about a favorite memory from a trip you have taken
Swimming in the bioluminescent bay in Puerto Rico and being surprised by a pod of dolphins
Where is your favorite place you have traveled to?
La Parguera, Puerto Rico
Fun fact, special talent, or favorite memory
I can lick my elbow!
What do you like to do in your free time?
Read, dance, kayak, lay on the beach, and try new foods and recipes
What languages do you speak?
English, Spanish, and I’m currently learning Italian
If you had to give one piece of advice or words of encouragement to someone on their first travel experience, what would it be?
Lean into discomfort. Sometimes new experiences – like conversing in a different language or pushing yourself through a long hike – can be difficult. Embrace the new and unknown to learn more about yourself and the world.
Tell us why you are excited for this year’s trip!
I am excited to discover the beauty of Costa Rica and to show students some amazing public health practices that are unlike those of any other place in the world! Plus I really want to see a sloth!