Beyond the Grade: How Alumni Define Career-Ready
Location
Logan, UT
Start Date
8-13-2025 11:00 AM
End Date
8-13-2025 11:45 AM
Description
How well do academic programs prepare students for careers in recreation administration? This presentation explores findings from a study comparing the experiences of early-career and established recreation professionals, shedding light on the transition from academia to professional practice. The research highlights critical themes such as mentorship, leadership development, adaptability, and industry-relevant skills that impact long-term career success.
Through alumni perspectives, we examine how authentic assessments—such as internships, project-based learning, and industry-aligned competency frameworks—bridge the gap between coursework and career readiness. Early-career professionals report challenges in budgeting, public engagement, and leadership, while established professionals emphasize mentorship, advocacy, and adapting to emerging trends.
Attendees will engage in discussion on how higher education can evolve to better support recreation professionals at all career stages, equipping students with the skills needed to thrive in the ever-changing recreation field.
Beyond the Grade: How Alumni Define Career-Ready
Logan, UT
How well do academic programs prepare students for careers in recreation administration? This presentation explores findings from a study comparing the experiences of early-career and established recreation professionals, shedding light on the transition from academia to professional practice. The research highlights critical themes such as mentorship, leadership development, adaptability, and industry-relevant skills that impact long-term career success.
Through alumni perspectives, we examine how authentic assessments—such as internships, project-based learning, and industry-aligned competency frameworks—bridge the gap between coursework and career readiness. Early-career professionals report challenges in budgeting, public engagement, and leadership, while established professionals emphasize mentorship, advocacy, and adapting to emerging trends.
Attendees will engage in discussion on how higher education can evolve to better support recreation professionals at all career stages, equipping students with the skills needed to thrive in the ever-changing recreation field.