Lia Robertson

Hometown: San Jose and Placerville, Calif.

Major: Recreation, Parks and Tourism Administration. Class of 2007.

Background: Grew up in San Jose, then moved to Placerville and attended Ponderosa High School. Moving from a major city to a rural area gave Robertson an appreciation for the natural areas she didn't have access to as a child. She was on the honor roll every semester while attending Sacramento State and actively promoted women's and children's rights by working and volunteering for a number of social justice organizations.

Influences: "One of my professors really took me under his wing. He helped me figure out where I wanted to go and opened my mind to some other career options. He gave me the names and numbers of people I could contact for more information, and because of that, I ended up working at the Effie Yeaw Nature Center. And I even worked for the Forest Service for a while."

Highlight: "I really appreciated the experience of living in such a multicultural area and getting to know students from all kinds of backgrounds."

Proudest Accomplishment: Earning the Senior Recognition Award from her major's department. "My college education took a lot of hard work, and it was stressful at times, but it's worth it. I get to work outside and educate people about things that really interest me."

Destination: Pursued a position as a Park Interpretive Specialist at the Effie Yeaw Nature Center. "Eventually I'd like to open a nature center in a community that needs one."