GLOBAL UNIVERSITY 2019: MEET MADINA BEORI


MEET MADINA BEORI:
Outdoor Recreation Student Programs
Coordinator, University of South Florida 
AORE Member & Global University Participant '19



Describe how you first fell in love with nature. 
As a child in Vermont, nature was my backyard. It wasn't uncommon in the summer for the neighborhood kids to play outside all day (jumping in streams, catching worms, etc.) and not come back until the street lights came on at night. I had everything I wanted: freedom, adventure, and community. Growing up, nature became my therapist, teacher, and best friend. It's where I've had transformative experiences, learned essential life lessons, and been most myself.
 
Why did you apply for Global University?
My reason for joining Global University is as personal as it is professional. As a young professional, I am embracing all available opportunities to cultivate my knowledge, skills, and confidence. As a person of color, I am passionate about dismantling barriers to the outdoors and I am determined to add a diverse voice to the discourse. This professional development experience will help me accomplish both goals.

Which activities and sessions are you most looking forward to and why?
I am interested in educational sessions that will help me expand wellness opportunities and introduce sustainable diversity initiatives on my campus. And while I have been to La Fortuna before, I have never hiked the Arenal Volanco. This will be a spectacular experience! I am also excited to go kayaking, swimming, and relax during the nighttime yoga practice outdoors.
 
In your opinion, what unique qualities and perspectives do women bring to their work?
As a woman, I am eager to access a network of women leaders in outdoor recreation and build upon their collective work as I expand my own expertise through Global University. I believe that as women we can harness our insight, ability, and creativity to transcend the industry. In fact, the anthropologist. Margaret Mead, said “never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it's the only thing that ever has.”
 
What personal strengths do you bring to your work and how do you think these traits will touch down during the trip?
As a young professional, I believe I can contribute curiosity, open-mindedness, and adaptability. As a person of color, I can provide alternative perspectives not always represented in these discussions. As myself, I can bring my energy, creativity, and corny jokes.
 
In terms of professional development, what aspect of the trip are you most looking forward to and why?
My professional goals include: 1) learn how to integrate outdoor programs into campus wellness initiatives; 2) reflect on practices to reduce barriers and increase diversity within the outdoors; and 3) join a supportive community of inspiring women and gain confidence as a "nature-born" leader.

Why are outdoor educational experiences important to personal growth and development?
In purely theoretical terms, these activities provide the type of direct experience and focused reflection needed to support learning and personal growth. Thinking about wellness, being in nature improves cognitive functioning, increases memory, and attention span, among other benefits.

Describe your connection to AORE, G Adventures, and NIRSA, if any. 
The University of South Florida (where I work) holds an institutional membership, of which I am a part. I am already looking forward to meeting back up with the women of Global University this fall when I attend the AORE-AEE annual conference in Spokane, WA. I also will be attending my third NIRSA Florida Summit in June this year.
 

 

AORE will provide full coverage of Global University 2019 during the Costa Rica trip (May 21 - 29). Daily recaps, reflections, fun travel facts, photos, and videos will be available in the AORE newsroom and on social media. Don't forget to follow along with participants as they learn and grow through each new adventure they encounter! Global University is made possible thanks to the generous support of G Adventures, our loyal AORE365 Partner. G Adventures organizes small group tours to exciting destinations all over the world. Visit the G Adventures website when you plan your next global travel adventure and get the support you need to curate a stress-free, enriching experience that brings you closer to the people, places, and cultures that you want to visit. Learn more about Global University 2019