Outdoor Adventure Education Graduate Overcoming Challenges and Achieving Success
The University of Wales Trinity Saint David (UWTSD) is proud to highlight the inspiring journey of a recent graduate from the Outdoor Adventure Education programme, who has not only excelled academically but has also overcome significant personal challenges.
During her studies, Rhein Mikaelson discovered she had ADHD as well as an existing diagnosis of dyspraxia, receiving essential tools and support to help her succeed academically and in daily life. Rhein says this support played a crucial role in enhancing her understanding and perspective on education, opening new pathways and opportunities.
Rhein’s academic journey included studying a variety of engaging modules such as Curriculum Adventure, Landscape and Sustainable Recreation, Perspectives on Outdoor Education, Sustainable Journeys, Psychology of Personal Adventure, and Critical Incidents in Adventurous Activities. Her dissertation focused on green social prescribing, highlighting the support for people to engage in nature-based interventions and activities to improve their mental and physical health.
She began her time at UWTSD with limited swimming ability, which posed a barrier to fully participating in the course’s outdoor activities. Despite this initial setback, she demonstrated remarkable determination and resilience, ultimately earning a Swim Teaching Award, which now enables her to teach swimming to others.
Reflecting on her journey, Rhein said:
“When I first joined UWTSD, I couldn’t swim or even float. Swimming was a skill I had always wanted to master but had never been able to. With the help of supportive staff, particularly Karin, who provided one-on-one lessons, I was able to achieve my goal.”
Rhein expressed deep gratitude for the dedicated UWTSD staff who played pivotal roles in her journey. She adds:
“Many staff members helped me in my academic journey but we would be here forever if I mentioned them all. The staff at this uni are the most caring positive helpful staff I have known in any academic institute and they are truly one of a kind.”
Graham Harvey, UWTSD Outdoor Adventure Education Lecturer said:
“Rhein has been a pleasure to teach. She always came to sessions well-prepared and enthusiastic to learn, adopting a very proactive and enquiring approach to learning. Rhein has shown a fantastic commitment to her personal development over the three years and her determination and good humour have allowed her to greatly enhance her understanding and ability in a wide range of activities. The staff team are looking forward to seeing how Rhein’s outstanding progress continues as she takes the next steps in her adventure.”
For more information about the UWTSD’s Outdoor Adventure Education programmes, please visit Outdoor Adventure Education (Full-time) | University of Wales Trinity Saint David (uwtsd.ac.uk) or contact info@uwtsd.ac.uk.
Further Information
Lowri Thomas
Principal Communications and PR Officer
Corporate Communications and PR
Email: lowri.thomas@uwtsd.ac.uk
Phone: 07449 998476