Undergraduate Jake Ingram experienced the outdoor recreationist’s dream, gaining credit and experience through his internship at the Devils Thumb Ranch Resort this past summer. He worked on mountain bikes and guided visitors on a myriad of outdoor adventures.
Working in the ranch shop, Zach’s Mercantile, Ingram spent days out on the ranch assisting people with various actives such as standup paddle boarding, mountain biking and hiking or in the shop working on bikes. Through the skills and knowledge he gained in his BS in Natural Resource Recreation in the Department of Human Dimensions of Natural Resources, Jake was able to not only excel in his intership but create recreation programs and products at Devils Thumb.
“I started a slacklining program there where I taught kids how to slackline, as well as Cowpoke camps for 5-12 years old. It was a lot of fun giving back to the kids” he became dedicated to making the outdoors fun for visitors of all ages. Ingram understands the importance of loving the outdoors as a kid because it’s where he grew up.
“Ever since I was a young kid I’ve been on two wheels racing dirt bikes. It’s really where I feel at home. Backpacking, climbing, slacklining, rafting, anything outdoors and I’m happy.” This passion, along with his remarkable internship experience is what continues to inspire him to work with outdoor recreation in the future.
“This internship gave me a lot of good industry experience. What I’m looking for after I graduate is to work different seasonal jobs and gigs over the country. I want to build out the van and hit the road. This is just a little taste of what its like to work these seasonal jobs in the recreational field.”
As Ingram finishes up his junior year and starts to reflect on his experiences as a student he is thankful for the opportunities he’s been provided. He has learned that taking risks and being proactive at capitalizing on and creating opportunities has provided him with life altering experiences and the invaluable skills that go with them.
“If you’re given an opportunity, don’t say no even though it might feel far away, you gotta go for it.”
