Each year, faculty in the College of Education and Human Development (CEHD) come together to select an outstanding student in their program to receive the honor of being named as their program award winner. Students selected for this award embody the very best of their program: they excel in their studies; they demonstrate leadership in classes and internships; and they have a genuine and tenacious passion for their discipline.
The College of Education and Human Development faculty in Recreation Management have chosen
Corey Payne
as the recipient of the
2021 Thomas L. Goodale Award for Outstanding Student in Recreation Management – Parks and Outdoor Recreation
Q & A with Outstanding Student in Recreation Management – Parks and Outdoor Recreation, Corey Payne:
What part of your Mason experience are you most proud of?
Being a part of the Mason Women’s Rugby team was the most rewarding and challenging experience that I took part in at Mason. I’m proud of who I have become because of the team and the friends that I made through it.
What are your future plans, goals, and dreams?
I plan to continue to work with NOVA Parks. Being a part of this agency has been so rewarding and I hope to continue to grow with this park system. Ultimately, my dream is to work with the National Park Service.
What is your favorite memory from your time in the College of Education and Human Development?
My favorite memory was my Outdoor Leadership and Education class! I gained so many great friends and the class was super hands-on. The best parts of the class were the days we spent doing team building at The Edge and learning how to teach and create program plans.
What advice do you have for fellow CEHD students?
Find a place to work in your field while you’re still in your program so you can really get a feel for what you do and don’t want to do while you’re still learning. I started working at Pohick Bay my sophomore year as a Junior Ranger and am now as a senior, the Campground Supervisor. I’ve been able to apply what I’ve learned and get a genuine feel for what it is like working in parks and recreation.
Would you like to give any shout-outs to those who supported you along the way?
I want to thank the rugby teams that I have been a part of the past four years. My friends and family who were crucial to my success. My advisor Dr. Brenda Wiggins, and Professor Ivan Levin. Thank you to my coworkers and managers at Pohick Bay. Finally, thank you to Dunkin and Panera Bread for getting me through it all.