Who's Who: Nathan Bolt

Scanning the pool from high atop his observation chair, lifeguard Nathan Bolt keeps close watch over the swimmers below, tracking their movements and ensuring their safety.

Born and raised in Berkeley, Nathan started working at in 2007, at the age of seventeen, as a swim instructor and lifeguard. He took to the job immediately, enjoying its challenges and finding satisfaction in the work. "It's great working with the kids and seeing them progress. Some of them come back summer after summer and I can see how far they've come," he said.

His enthusiasm and faculty for teaching have earned him high praise. "Nathan is everything a good swim instructor should be," said Kristen Takakuwa, a mother of one of Nathan's returning students. "He's calm, patient, and really skilled. My daughter loves him."

Nathan appreciates working and living in Berkeley and recognizes it as a special place. "I love Berkeley!" he enthused, "Through all my travels, I have never found a place quite like it." Citing the diversity, creativity, and tolerance readily found in Berkeley, Nathan said, "What really separates Berkeley, in my mind, is the people. Because of the , Berkeley has a very intellectual side to it. Most people you meet have something smart and interesting to say."

Outside of work, Nathan likes to go dancing, rock climbing, or hiking. "I'm a pretty laid-back guy who is always open to trying something new. If one of my friends wants to try a new restaurant or go somewhere in the Bay Area for a hike, I'll be up for it," he said. 

Despite — or because of — living here his entire life, Nathan continues to acknowledge and value the people and places that make Berkeley such a unique city. "I love just going up to Indian Rock and looking out over the Bay Area," he said, flashing a winning smile and quickly adding, "And, of course, I love spending time working or swimming at the pool!"