Nathanael Mudlaff
Student | Explorer
What is your age?
"22 years old."
Where are you from?
"Des Moines, Iowa."
What activity are you involved in, and why do you like it?
Currently a student working toward my degree in business management, but the plan is to head back
home to Iowa and eventually pursue my family’s business as the fourth generation. It means a lot to me
to keep that tradition going and build on what my family has worked so hard to create. When I’m not
focused on school, I’m usually outside. I spend most of my free time backpacking, hiking, or camping—
basically anything that gets me out exploring. I love being outdoors and seeing new parts of God’s creation
that I haven’t experienced yet.
Why do you love America?
"One of the many reasons I America is how it represents opportunity, diversity, and freedom in a way
that is truly unique from anywhere else. The Declaration of Independence, emphasizes liberty and
equality, and those principles continue to shape its identity today. From the cultural influence in Cities
like New York City and Los Angeles to the natural beauty of places such as Zion and Yosemite National
Park, America offers an incredible mix of people, landscapes, and ideas. What I admire most is that
anyone, regardless of background, can pursue their dreams and build a future through hard work
and determination."
What freedoms do you value most in this country?
"The freedoms I value most in this country are the freedom of speech and the freedom to practice my
faith openly. I’m thankful that I can say what I believe, have open conversations, and stand up for what
I think is right without worrying about being silenced. Not every place in the world offers that, and it’s
something I try not to take for granted."
What values do you hope America never loses?
"Freedom, the idea that people should be able to speak their minds, live out their faith, and choose their
own path in life is something that makes this country special. That sense of independence and personal
responsibility is a big part of what shapes who we are."
How has living in America shaped who you are today?
"Growing up in America has helped me become someone who values faith, freedom, and responsibility.
Having the chance to choose my own path has pushed me to work hard and stay grounded in my beliefs.
It’s shaping me into a man of God who’s ready to lead, build something meaningful, and one day raise a
strong, faith-centered family."
What does “the American Dream” look like to you?
"The American Dream is all about building a legacy while keeping, tradional values. It’s having the
chance to provide for my future wife and kids and give them a home that’s full of faith, stability, and
the same opportunities I was given."
What part of America’s history inspires you?
"A part of America’s history that inspires me is the pioneers and settlers who explored new lands and
built communities from the ground up. The courage it took to take the risk and leave everything familiar
and work hard to create a better life really encourages me."
What do you wish more people understood about this country?
"I wish more people remembered the people who built America. The settlers, families, soldiers, and
everyone who gave their lives for this country, including our veterans. Those who worked hard, sacrificed
a lot, and stayed true to their faith so we could have the freedoms and opportunities we have today. With
everything going on in today’s day and how divided we are, it feels like nobody really takes the time to
remember the roots of who built America and gave everything for this country."
What do you think is important for the next generation to know?
"It's important for the next generation to know the value of traditional things like faith, family, and
hard work."
“I’m grateful for my freedom in this country.”
How are you celebrating America's 250th birthday?
"I’ll be celebrating America’s 250th birthday at our lake home in Clear Lake Iowa, a tradition we’ve
done every year I’ve been alive. We’ll spend the day eating, swimming, and watching fireworks together.
It will always be my family’s way of celebrating the United States of America and our freedom."
