GLOBAL UNIVERSITY 2019: MEET CHRISTINE TICEHURST

Christine Ticehurst
Recreation & Interpretation, Pennsylvania
Department of Conservation & Natural Resources
AORE Member and Global University '19 Participant

Describe how you first fell in love with nature. Why do you still love the wilderness today?
My love of nature began when I was growing up in my childhood home on Long Island. I remember exploring my backyard for flowering plants, spending time at the beach searching for shells (and getting sunburnt), and catching my first fish off Long Island Sound. Those little moments were the sparks that contributed to my love of nature and the outdoors. Nowadays, I’m far from the hubbub of Long Island. I live in central Pennsylvania with my husband, three children, dog, and chickens. Instead of thousands of people surrounding me, there are thousands of trees and so many opportunities to head out and explore nearby Penn’s Woods. It feels really special to be able to have my “crew” with me now to share in these adventures outdoors. There’s nothing more rewarding than seeing the smile on one of my child’s faces when they catch a fish on the line, discover a spring ephemeral blooming while on a walk in the woods, or squeal loudly “wow, that’s so cool!” It’s those little moments that stop me right in my tracks and recharge my soul.
 
Why are outdoor learning activities, recreation experiences, and adventure-based education opportunities important to personal growth and development?
To me, the outdoors lends itself as one of the best classrooms. No matter the age, ability, or knowledge one may possess, nature always has a way of providing a new experience to reflect on and grow from. Perhaps you’re learning how to spend time outdoors and not walk in poison ivy. Maybe you’re going camping for the first time and getting over the fear of sleeping outside at night or learning how not to fall off a stand-up paddleboard. Regardless, there are opportunities for learning and building new skills. Plus, at the end of the adventure, there’s always a good story to crack up about with friends!
 
Why did you apply for Global University this year?
When I read the announcement for Global University 2019, I thought someone was playing a joke on me. It really felt like the program was too good to be true. I sent the information off to my supervisor thinking he’d say, “LOL, that’s a good one. No, you can’t apply.” But to my surprise, he was all for the idea! After that, I went full throttle with preparing and submitting my application. Talk about the trip of a lifetime! Although I have never been there personally, Costa Rica has always represented this magical place to me. What better way to actually go and explore the country and its’ amazing beauty than with a group of other ladies in the outdoor recreation field who share a similar love of nature! I feel incredibly lucky that I was able to make this investment in my professional development with the support of my department.
 
Which educational session are you most looking forward to and why?
I’m looking forward to building a framework that will help me increase access to outdoor experiences for underrepresented groups back home in Pennsylvania.
 
Which outdoor activity are you most excited about and why?
Umm, all of them! But honestly, the whitewater rafting portion is probably the biggest deal for me. I’ve never gone rafting before and internally I have some anxiety. But I know I will be able to conquer these fears with the support of the other women on the trip and grow a great deal because of the whole experience. Ultimately, I know it will be a blast! I’m also looking forward to the tropical plants, birds, and other wildlife.
 
In terms of professional development, what aspect of the trip are you most looking forward to and why?
I am most excited about the exposure to new ideas, learning about local customs and communities, meeting new people, and collaborating with others that share similar goals and interests.

What personal strengths do you bring to your work and how do you think these traits will touch down during the trip?
I like to think that I am an outgoing individual. I really enjoy meeting new people and learning about their backgrounds. I hope to grow my interpersonal skills while engaging with the other amazing women that are on this learning journey with me in Costa Rica!