Selfie of Josie Weaver backpacking in Yellowstone National Park
A photo of me backpacking in Yellowstone National Park.
  • Josie Weaver, 28, works in the Co-Op Employee Recreation Program at Yellowstone National Park.
  • As an assistant program manager, Weaver gets free housing and meals and enjoys three-day weekends.
  • In her free time, she goes to employee events, stargazes in the park with her friends, and hikes.

This as-told-to essay is based on a conversation with Josie Weaver, a 28-year-old employee at Yellowstone National Park. This essay has been edited for length and clarity. Business Insider verified her identity, employment, and free room and board.

About six years ago, I applied for a temporary job at Yellowstone National Park.