Colorado State University - Tourism Naturally

A mountain weekend for the books! Our Master of Tourism Management program went on a 2-day excursion to Summit County to learn about the costs and benefits of outdoor recreation economies to local communities. The goal was to expose students to a case study relevant to many of the topics they are learning about in other coursework. By talking with local leaders with expertise in economic development, conservation, and housing, we learned about how Summit County is navigating the complexity of having an economy so reliant on outdoor recreation tourism. To cap it, we went cross country skiing in Breckenridge!

Stop 1: Summit County Open Space with Allison Morton, also a CLTL alum along with our professor Sarah Walker!

Stop 2: Summit Economic Partnership with Thayer Hirsh

Stop 3: Copper Mountain Resort with Megan Wagaman

Stop 4: A warm & welcome stay at Keystone Science School

Stop 5: Experienced some cross country skiing at Breckenridge Nordic Center!

Thank you to our speakers for their time sharing your expertise on how you better our communities!

Warner College of Natural Resources

Want to know more about our Master of Tourism Management graduate program ⁉️

Upcoming virtual info session
Hear from our program coordinator Kathryn Metzger !

Monday, January 27th at 12 p.m. MT
R.S.V.P. to receive the Zoom link HERE ! ↙️

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSf2rwjUeIiKah8mycukFPMIlM2eFyF1l_bv3Y2DPHmz_QuXsA/viewform

Alumni Spotlight | Iman Zarei
Master of Tourism Management (Online)
Class of 2023

Where are they now?
Founder and Manager at Beyond Bounds Adventure Company (https://beyondboundsadventure.com/)

Beyond Bounds Adventure is an adventure company committed to crafting unique experiences that connect you with the beauty of nature. The diverse team brings a wealth of perspectives and a genuine love for the outdoors, ensuring that every journey is enriching and transformative.

Q&A with Iman
What skills and knowledge from your graduate program are you using in your current position?
"In my current position managing an adventure tourism company, I utilize a wide range of skills and knowledge acquired from my graduate tourism management program including Strategic Planning and Management, Marketing and Promotion, Sustainable Tourism Practices, Customer Service and Experience Design, Financial Management, Risk Management and Safety, Leadership and Team Management."

Can you share a favorite aspect of your graduate program?
"My favorite aspect of my graduate program at Colorado State University was the emphasis on making courses match real-world situations. This practical approach to learning was incredibly valuable and made the theoretical knowledge we gained immediately applicable to the challenges faced in the tourism industry."

What is some advice you would like to share with current students and/or prospective students considering your program?
"My advice to current and prospective students is to fully embrace the learning journey rather than just focusing on completing the program. Challenge yourself to deepen your knowledge and seek feedback to grow. Build a strong network by connecting with peers and industry professionals. Apply what you learn in your courses to your daily work, integrating theoretical knowledge with practical application. This approach will enhance your educational experience and prepare you for a successful career."