GLOBAL UNIVERSITY 2019: MEET NICOLE LAROCQUE
Nicole LaRocque
Associate Director of Recreation Programs,
University of Colorado Boulder,
AORE member and NIRSA member,
Global University 2019 participant
Describe how you first fell in love with nature. Why do you still love the wilderness today?
I fell in love with nature as a kid when our family went tent camping in Colorado on summer vacations. Today being outdoors fuels me physically and emotionally. I love to move my body and be outside. There are so many places to explore and new things to try. My children also love to be outdoors with me. When I’m enjoying nature with my family, it is the best feeling.
Why are outdoor learning activities and recreation experiences important to personal growth?
I believe outdoor learning and recreation experiences develop cultural competence, teach sustainability, and provide opportunities to develop leadership skills and build community. The positive mental health benefits of outdoor recreation is one thing that I am learning more about and it’s incredibly relevant as we see alarming statistics related to mental health and suicide among college students and youth.
Why did you apply for Global University this year?
My OP Director has had an eye on Global University for a few years now. When I saw there was a women's leadership focus this year, I jumped at the opportunity with the full support of my department. The learning outcomes and curriculum fit with both my personal and professional goals as well as with the current working goals of my institution/division. Having participated in other women's leadership conferences and events in the past, Global University stood out as being unique. The international travel and outdoor learning focus were a significant draw. I'm excited to learn in new ways during this trip to Costa Rica.
Which educational session are you most looking forward to and why?
I've placed a strong focus on leadership development over the past 3-4 years and I continue to be drawn to this sort of professional development opportunity. I strive to be a great leader and also mentor and develop other leaders along the way. As the needs, technology, education, workplace environment, etc. evolve over time, one must also continue to evolve as a leader. Simply being here and taking part in the various education sessions is what excites me. Each topic interests me in a different way and I think they will all work together to grow my knowledge base.
Which outdoor activity are you most excited about and why?
I'm eager to explore everything. I hike in Colorado often so the hiking portions of the itinerary have a strong appeal to me. But honestly, all of the planned activities will be fantastic! I can wait to dive in and make memories with these women!
Which location (city, national park, landmark, etc.) are you most eager to visit and why?
I think I’m most looking forward to our time in the rainforest because I don't believe I have ever experienced anything like it before. 
I'm from the world of bears, chipmunks, moose, elk, mountain lions, and rattle snakes. I looking forward to seeing different types of animals and birds in their natural jungle habitat.
What personal strengths do you bring to your work and how do you think these traits will touch down during the trip?
I have the ability to see the big picture as well as appreciate and understand different perspectives. I am always eager to learn and try new things. I am empathetic and love meeting new people too. I am excited to get to know the other women on the trip and form relationships with them that will last long into the future. Being open to understanding different perspectives is also going to help me as we explore Costa Rica and I know I will learn so much from the conversations I have with the rich cohort of women participating in Global University.
In terms of professional development, what aspect of the trip are you most looking forward to and why?
I want to build cultural competence, network, develop my leadership skills, and learn about international travel for our OP program. Global University will help me develop personally and professionally in these areas while supporting my department's goals.
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 you want to visit. Learn more about Global University 2019.