Putting the "Sport" in Recreation, Sport and Tourism Management
March 20, 2024
The University of Idaho is known for its hands-on education and teaching style, extending far beyond the confines of the lecture hall. The recreation, sport, and tourism management major epitomizes this ethos. Within this major lies a trove of opportunities for students aspiring to venture into the athletic industry. From internships to event and conference travel, avenues for exploration abound for those seeking diverse career trajectories within the sports domain.
Brian Fowler, a clinical assistant professor for RSTM, underscores the program's emphasis on project-based learning, breaking away from conventional lecture and test-centric formats. Furthermore, the program's intimate scale offers a myriad of advantages to students. Faculty members work closely with students, fostering robust networks and unwavering support. The project-centric curriculum cultivates close bonds among students, nurturing a collaborative atmosphere. While fostering this tight-knit community is paramount, it doesn't impede program expansion. Fowler notes, " We’re seeing a lot of growth in our program and more interest in the area of sport. With that, we’re hoping to be able to expand some of our offerings and focus on sport. We’re always trying to bring in new classes and new opportunities. I think there’s a bright future going forward for us in that sense."
The symbiotic rapport between the RSTM program and Vandal Athletics proves instrumental for students keen on sports pursuits. Kennedy LaFountaine, a senior in RSTM, highlights her use of extracurricular opportunities to explore career avenues. Within a week of joining U of I, she engaged with Vandal Athletics, securing a pivotal position for her practicum. After a year of working at athletic events, she diversified her experience within the sports realm. Initially eyeing a career as a collegiate strength and conditioning coach, LaFountaine broadened her horizons after a practicum stint in the weight room. Reflecting on her journey, LaFountaine remarks, " The hands-on experience has been the most impactful in what I want to do. It helped me figure things out. " Throughout her tenure in the RSTM program, LaFountaine participated in diverse opportunities, including working at an MLB All-Star game, exploring various career avenues via practicums and internships and establishing a robust professional network.
Fowler underscores the program's versatility and adaptability, noting, " Our program is offered 100% online with many in-person classes. There’s a flexibility in the way that students can complete this major, which is really nice because the hands-on experience is important. So, if students do get an opportunity away from Moscow, they are able to complete a lot of those classes online so they can pursue those important opportunities at the same time."
The College of Education, Health and Human Sciences caters to a broad spectrum of student interests, preparing them for an array of post-graduation career paths, including ticket sales, facility management, collegiate sports, minor leagues, community sports and beyond. The RSTM program equips students with practical experiences and vital connections, propelling them toward successful careers in the sports industry.
About the University of Idaho
The University of Idaho, home of the Vandals, is Idaho’s land-grant, national research university. From its residential campus in Moscow, U of I serves the state of Idaho through educational centers in Boise, Coeur d’Alene and Idaho Falls, nine research and Extension centers, plus Extension offices in 42 counties. Home to nearly 11,000 students statewide, U of I is a leader in student-centered learning and excels at interdisciplinary research, service to businesses and communities, and in advancing diversity, citizenship and global outreach. U of I competes in the Big Sky and Western Athletic conferences. Learn more at uidaho.edu.