8 COLLEGE OF FORESTRY From the battlefield to the backcountry: A new chapter in the Rogue Valley Kevin Anderson’s journey to the OSU College of Forestry began after a distinguished 30-year career in the U.S. Army. Upon retiring in June 2024, and with support from the Department of Veterans Affairs, he had the opportunity to pursue a new path. The tourism, recreation and adventure leadership (TRAL) Ecampus program gave him the flexibility he needed, allowing him to pursue his passions while remaining close to family. “After four challenging deployments as an Army infantryman, earning my degree from home and having the ability to stay with my family is truly a blessing,” Anderson said. “Family dynamics are not always conducive to stress-free learning environments, so what I love most about being an Ecampus student is the understanding and flexibility.” He chose the TRAL program because of his love for the outdoors. Being able to learn about forests and wildlife every day is what excites him most about the program, and it has given him a new perspective and appreciation for nature. Anderson selected the recreation management path within the program and found his footing in classes like TRAL 251: Recreation Resource Management. “It really solidified that this was the right path for me,” he said. “I learned so much about how parks are run — and doing my own site survey made it all click.” Looking ahead, Anderson hopes to use his education and TRAL degree to serve as a park ranger at Valley of the Rogue State Park — one close to his heart. “I was born and raised in the Rogue Valley and have enjoyed everything this park has to offer over the years,” he said. “I would love to be able to serve the community at this park for many years to come.” EDCUATION ANYWHERE, FOR EVERYONE COF ECAMPUS PROGRAMS UNLOCK KNOWLEDGE FOR ALL
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