Jace Mazzarelli

Hey everyone! I'm Jace, currently a junior at the University of Massachusetts studying economics. I recently discovered a new passion for leading a healthier and more active life. Going to UMass helped changed my life for the better. The beautiful scenery in Amherst inspired me to get outside and do something. It started with a single hike to the Notch in South Hadley. The struggle to get to the top was horrendus; having to take multiple breaks, I did not think I was going to make it. My friend Lorna refused to let me give up and I'm glad I didn't. The view was beautiful. That hike allowed me to open my eyes and really think about my life, I needed to make a change from the person I was. I had been leading a life eating almost nothing but processed food and being lazy. The hike encouraged me to get active and try new things which enabled me to find my love for cooking, skiing, kayaking and camping. I'm glad I went on that hike, I have a new outlook on the world.

I never want to go back to the old lifestyle I used to live, I do not think I could even if I tried. I recently bought myself a kayak, and cant wait to take it out on the lake with my friends. I also plan on purchasing skiis this summer when they are on sale so I can get out on the slopes more at the end of the year.