Ares grew up in Washington State, around the Olympia area, and is currently a student at the University of Alaska Fairbanks, majoring in Wildlife Ecology and Society. Growing up in a town surrounded by wildlife is part of what inspired him to go to Alaska and pursue his degree. Nature was important to him from a young age and he wants to do his part to help protect and conserve the environment. As a nonbinary and transgender individual, Ares strives to promote LGBTQ+ inclusivity and acceptance in all areas of his life, hoping to ensure that others encounter fewer challenges based on their LGBTQ+ identity. He is excited to learn more about wildlife conservation and climate change including its effects on the Arctic environment. Ares spends most of his time completing schoolwork with the help of his cats who keep him company. In his leisure, he likes to draw, hike, attempt to keep his plants alive, spend time with his cats, and watch his favorite shows or movies.