Essen grew up hiking in the beautiful forests of Virginia and pursued her journey west through Kansas to Utah. She hopes to continue her west-bound trajectory by biking the Pacific Coast in the next year. Before coming to the Bicycle Collective, Essen worked to develop refugee programming in a Title 1 elementary school for parent engagement and English Language Learners, through AmeriCorps VISTA. She has also enjoyed directing events, teaching kiddos in special education, and conducting social science research. These experiences helped solidify her love for community engagement with diverse groups. She previously volunteered at the Provo Bicycle Collective and is excited to be part of the Salt Lake team! She is passionate about the healthy lifestyle cycling promotes and the community the Collective creates. You can find her rock-climbing, camping, or scheming ways to recreate the mochi ice cream she buys at Whole Foods.