Jeremy Armentrout's Outdoor Exploration

"Being a Research Rookie has helped me to discover my career path through greater exposer to professional outdoor recreation industry through my research, conferences presentations, and interaction with faculty of the RCPT department. The opportunity to work with my mentor so closely as an undergraduate student is a very rewarding experience."

Radford University Recreation, Parks, and Tourism major, Jeremy Armentrout, has achieved the milestone of becoming a published researcher! Collaborating with Professor Anja Whittington, their work titled "Outdoor Participation and Spending Trends in Virginia: How Much Is Too Much?" was featured in the spring 2023 edition of the Virginia Social Science Journal. The research delves into Virginia's outdoor participation rates and the growing economy within the outdoor retail industry, drawing from two years of dedicated study. Notably, Jay E. Raymond from West Virginia University Institute of Technology also contributed to this publication.

Armentrout played a pivotal role in the research, undertaking the collection, recording, and analysis of survey data under the guidance of Professor Whittington. His involvement reflects a dedicated commitment to scholarly pursuits and showcases the practical application of his studies in Recreation, Parks, and Tourism.

Throughout his academic journey at Radford, Armentrout has been a Research Rookie and an active member of RU Outdoors since his sophomore year. As a Recreation, Parks, and Tourism major, he has dual concentrations in Outdoor Leadership and Tourism/Special Events.

This publication marks a significant achievement for Jeremy Armentrout, reinforcing the integration of academic research and real-world application in the realm of outdoor studies.