GLOBAL UNIVERSITY 2019: MEET ADRIENNE FIKE
Adrienne Fike
Assistant Director Adventure Leadership Program
East Carolina University
AORE member and NIRSA member
Describe how you first fell in love with nature. Why do you still love the wilderness today?
I fell in love with the outdoors when I was very young. This connection to nature deepened even further while I was an undergraduate student. After surviving a canoe trip from hell (and still loving the whole thing!), I just knew that I needed to work for the university’s Outdoor Adventure Program. I still love working with college students today, especially when I get to engage with newbies who haven’t spent much time in the outdoors. There’s something satisfying about seeing people form their own unique relationship with nature.
Why are outdoor learning activities and recreation experiences important to personal growth and development?
I could talk about this topic forever because I feel like I am the living example of the type of impact these programs can have on students. These hands-on learning opportunities prompt resilience and problem solving while encouraging individuals to push past their comfort zone and learn new skills. Outdoor programs also create a welcoming space for students where they are able to meet new people and share something incredible together. Often, this sparks a lifelong friendship. It is the sort of experience that you can't really get anywhere else.
Which educational session are you most looking forward to and why?
I am most excited about the session titled: “Exploring Critical Issues in Higher Education.” There are so many issues that our students grapple with day-to-day. As educators, we need to become more aware of the challenges out there so that we can better support those in our programs, especially when it comes to mental health concerns.
Which trip activities are you most excited about and why?
Kayaking! I adore being on the water and as an ACA instructor, I love getting to paddle in new locations. I am also looking forward to visiting Arenal National Park. I heard about how gorgeous it was the last time I was in Costa Rica, but I never had the time to go.
What unique qualities and perspectives do women bring to their work?
I think women in the outdoors bring the empathy needed to make people feel comfortable and confident while doing something that also might be scary.
What personal strengths do you bring to your work and how do you think these traits will touch down during the trip?
I am a doer and always am willing to jump in and help when there is a need. I also love teaching so I hope I get to share some of my skills with those on the trip that aren't as outdoorsy.
In terms of professional development, what aspect of the trip are you most looking forward to and why?
I am definitely looking forward to the networking aspect of Global University. I am also eager to hear what other schools and programs are doing to reach out and engage the next generation of students. I think there are great opportunities for all of us to brainstorm, strategize, and collaborate together in this area.
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 willbe 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 you want to visit. Learn more about Global University 2019.