Erin Ciampa – Exploring barriers to outdoor recreation
2023 Mitchell Center Intern
Academic Programs: Parks, Recreation and Tourism, Honors, UMaine
Project: Barriers to outdoor recreation faced by Underrepresented Minority groups in Maine
Team Leaders: Sandra De Urioste-Stone, UMaine School of Forest Resources; Rex Turner, Maine Dept. of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry
Why are you interested in the problem you are working on?
I feel happiest when I can spend time in nature, and believe everyone should get the same opportunity. Nature-based activities are some of the most fulfilling things you can do, and this project will allow me the chance to get to know more about how we can make outdoor recreation more accessible.
How could your work contribute to a sustainable future in Maine and beyond?
As outdoor recreation becomes more accessible, the number of people who truly love the outdoors will grow. When people love something, they want to protect it, which will inevitably lead to more sustainable practices to preserve the beauty of nature.
What do you feel are the most important skills that you bring to your internship?
I feel that the most important skills I bring to the internship are my interpersonal communication skills and my ability to learn quickly. Some of what I’ll be doing for this internship will be new, so being able to adapt and learn quickly will be very helpful.
What have you learned through your participation in this internship?
I’ve learned much more about the intersection of Divesity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) and outdoor recreation through readings suggested by Gab Venne in preparation for the bulk of the research. I’ve also gotten to know a little more about how to conduct qualitative research and the challenges of connecting with stakeholders.
What are your personal goals for this internship? What do you hope to accomplish?
This is my first opportunity to help conduct research, so I am excited to gain lots of new knowledge and experiences through this internship. If I were to give one personal goal, it would be to absorb as much as possible through the process and come out with ideas for the future.
How do you like to spend your free time/down time?
Most of my free time is spent with my friends, walking on trails, or camping somewhere. I also love to cook and bake! I find it a great way to relax after a long day.
What’s your ultimate Maine experience?
A weekend exploring Acadia with friends or family! No matter how many times I go to Acadia, it’s always different, and I love finding new spots that are a bit quieter and away from the crowds.