The Rec Practicum class recently planned out a trip to Hawaii with Instructors Kirsten Domas and Andrew McDonald. The class conducted research to better understand ecotourism and sustainable businesses in the recreation field. – Colleen Donohue

Black sand beach, sea turtles resting together on shore

A day out at sea, boat dock for snorkeling attractions

Sunset in Hawaii

Mauna Kea volcano hike in Hawaii – 13,000 feet elevation, head in the clouds

Painted pine on a surfboard at the hostel where we stayed

At the airport on our way out!

Hawaii

by Bayle Reichert

Feeling the sand in my toes, and a few lava rocks as well. I wander down to the beach from the campsite where we are staying. A bright red-orange sun is setting on the Pacific Ocean, saying good-bye for now. I take it all in, from the volcanoes to the luau; there is no place I would rather spend my 2016 Spring Break. Having the company of my fellow recreation students made it even more experiential, as we all worked together and became closer throughout the trip. Seeing the culture of the people, as well as learning the technical skills of surfing, snorkeling and hiking at high elevations, I felt engulfed in everything Hawaii had to offer me. We also were able to meet with a Paul Smith’s College alum during our stay; he talked about the work he does and I was able to ask him questions. While hiking the tallest mountain in the world, Mauna Kea, I fee a shortness of breath. One-step every two seconds, feeling sick, we all sat down. At this moment I call my mom to tell her know how amazing it all is and that I love her. I know this is an experience of a lifetime and breathing in all that fruity air made me realize how lucky I truly am.