Breadcrumb
Recreation Administration, B.A. | Class of
Kacie Hallahan
Park Ranger
Employer: Bureau of Land Management
Job description: I work in the King Range National Conservation Area (NCA), patrolling and maintaining 85 miles of wilderness trails, including the Lost Coast Trail. My main responsibilities include leading trail crews to complete trail maintenance projects and connecting with backpackers on trail to discuss wilderness safety, Leave No Trace ethics, and rules and regulations. When I am not backpacking four days a week, I assist in a wide variety of land management activities including: wildlife surveys, prescribed fire activities, facility maintenance, and much more.
About Kacie
Why did you choose this program?
I knew that I wanted to work outdoors, but I had yet to find my exact niche. I chose the Recreation Administration program because my counselor at College of the Redwoods recommended it to me.
How did this program prepare you for your job?
The skills I learned through the Recreation Administration program have made me the perfect fit for the role of a backcountry/wilderness ranger for a land management agency. My leadership and group facilitation skills have allowed me to lead groups of up to fifteen youth and/or adult volunteers, crew/corps members, and fellow employees through challenging work projects in the backcountry. Risk management and personal/group safety play a huge role in my current job, which are skills that were deeply ingrained throughout the Recreation Administration program.
What did you enjoy most about the program?
I loved making group dinners with my classmates, sleeping in group shelters, practicing off-trail navigation, and all of the sunrises and sunsets. Additionally, I loved participating in additional trainings offered cooperatively through the Humboldt Bay Aquatic Center, where I received kayak, SUP, and canoe guide training. I loved serving as an Assistant Instructor (AI) on the Winter Adventure Leadership course, watching my fellow classmates' skills blossom, and providing mentorship to newer students.
What would you say to prospective students who are thinking about applying to this program?
This program changed my life and gave me a sense of direction. The skills you will develop are exceptionally transferable and desirable to employers. This program was so much fun and at times very challenging!
Taking even just one or two Recreation Administration courses will give you insight into just how amazing this program is. Take the leap, change your life, have a blast!