Elizabeth Burns
For Auburn University College of Forestry, Wildlife and Environment (CFWE) student Elizabeth Burns, the Parks and Recreation Management (PARK) program represents both a personal milestone and a glimpse into the future of the field.
As the first student to express interest and officially declare the PARK major in the CFWE, Burns has played a unique role in the program’s early growth. Now preparing to graduate in spring 2026, her journey highlights the opportunities available to other students pursuing careers in parks and recreation.
Originally enrolled in the Wildlife Ecology and Management program, Burns discovered the PARK major aligned more closely with her goals and made the switch early in her academic career.
“When I heard about the new PARK major, I felt that it would suit my career goals even better, so I switched over as soon as I was able,” she said. “I’ve enjoyed every class I’ve taken, which has made me confident that I made the right decision.”
Since then, Burns has embraced the program’s hands-on learning approach and professional development opportunities. She emphasizes that one of her favorite aspects of the major is the opportunities that students have to learn outside of the classroom.
“I really enjoy the huge number of opportunities we get to be outside in each class,” Burns said. “It often helps to cement the lessons we learn as well as being a fun time.”
Burns giving a Ranger Talk at the Southeast Alaska Discovery Center.
One of the most defining experiences of her time at Auburn came during the summer of 2025 when she interned with the U.S. Forest Service Southeast Alaska Discovery Center within the Tongass National Forest in Ketchikan, Alaska. There, Burns developed and led interpretive exhibit tours, gaining real-world experience in environmental education and public engagement.
“During this internship, I was given the chance to create and perform an exhibit tour through the Discover Center,” she recalls. “The CFWE prepared me for this chance through classes such as Environmental Interpretation and Programming in Parks and Recreation.”
Ultimately, Burns credits the PARK program for preparing her to step confidently into her role through her coursework and previous opportunities to engage with professionals in the field. She also pointed to the impacts of CFWE faculty Wesley Anderson, Allie McCreary and Michael Brunson who were instrumental in helping her grow in both skill and confidence through their enthusiasm and dedication to their instruction.
“Elizabeth’s enthusiasm for Auburn’s PARK major has been remarkable,” said Ginger Donaldson, CFWE director of student services. “She was the very first student to express interest and the first to officially declare the major, and she’s embraced every opportunity since. From an unforgettable internship in Alaska to preparing for life after graduation, it’s been a joy getting to know her, and she has such an exciting future ahead.”
As she looks ahead to graduation this spring, Burns stands as a strong example of how the PARK program equips students with the career skills, hands-on experience and confidence to succeed in a growing industry that connects people with the outdoors.
