Drew Duckworth
Senior Field Guide
Joined Open Sky: May 2011
In Wilderness Therapy since: 2011
Interview with Drew Duckworth
May 2011
Q: If you were able to meet anyone (living or dead), who would it be and why?
A: I would love to have a conversation with Meriwether Lewis. I think it would be fascinating to hear directly from him his descriptions of the land, animals, and people that occupied the West before the United States' expansion into the frontier. Also, I would enjoy picking the brain of a man who had an unbelievable amount of courage and leadership skills to successfully travel into a completely unknown and wild country and return with maps, newly discovered plant and animal species, knowledge of various native tribes, and so much more.
Q: What are a few of the defining moments in your life and why?
A: Two moments come to my mind immediately, first of which is when I went away to boarding school at the age of 13. At first it was difficult, but very quickly, I began to enjoy what I perceived as freedom. It gave me the opportunity to meet new people, try new things, and ultimately begin to develop into the person I wanted to be. The second moment is after taking two outdoor classes and realizing the direction I wanted to head in my life. I discovered the benefit of experiential education and simple living, along with the power of the natural environment as a healer and a teacher. I knew immediately that I wanted to share what I experienced with others.
Q: Who has been your greatest inspiration and why?
A: My greatest inspiration would have to be my dad. Not only has he always been by my side through thick and thin, but he has also shown me the importance of loving what you do. Growing up and seeing my dad come home everyday from work with a smile on his face is something I will never forget. He truly enjoyed his work and taught me the value of following your passions.
Q: What are your unique gifts and/or experiences that help our students?
A: A unique experience that I can relate to the students with is being away from home, family, and friends at a young age. It can be a difficult time and transition period. I understand the hardships of such an occasion and I have also enjoyed the benefits of a similar scenario. My experience can help the students see that although it may be hard, it will certainly be helpful.
Q: Why do you work in wilderness therapy?
A: I love helping others in need and I enjoy being in the wilderness, making wilderness therapy a perfect work environment. Spending extended time in the backcountry with students not only provides a great opportunity to meet and know them, but also gives me the chance to watch and help them learn, grow, and develop as I continue to learn, grow and develop myself. These experiences and my belief that wilderness therapy is effective are what drive me to work in this field.
Q: Why do you think wilderness therapy works?
A: Stepping outside of the comforts of modern society and into a wilderness environment provides us all with the time and space needed for self-reflection. Through this reflection, and without distractions, we are given the chance to truly look inwards and see our past as well as make healthy choices for the future. The natural world is a powerful tool that can be used as both a healer and a teacher. To place oneself in the backcountry for an extended period of time, one is guaranteed to confront many personal struggles while also having the opportunity to work closely with others in a community toward a common goal.
Q: What do you think Open Sky students need?
A: They need to understand that the physical, cognitive, and emotional changes they are experiencing are normal. It is also important for them to be surrounded by a healthy environment that promotes growth and personal identity. Challenging situations, good role models, and healthy exercise and food will assist in the development as well.
Q: What do you like to do for fun when you aren’t working in the field?
A: I enjoy being outside as much as possible. I look forward to trying new outdoor sports in and around Durango, as well as exploring many of the great backpacking trails in the Southwest. I also enjoy venturing to our National Parks and learning about their histories.
Q: Anything else you want to tell us about yourself?
A: I am a huge sports fan and love watching my hometown New York teams. Go NY Jets, Rangers, Yankees, and Knicks!
Professional Experience
NOLS
Pacific Northwest Outdoor Educator-Mountaineering
North Carolina Outward Bound School
Backpacking and Whitewater Canoeing
Eastern Mountain Sports
Store Guide
CORE Group Marketing
Licensed Real Estate Sales Associate
Friedman, Billings, and Ramsey
Sales Desk Intern
Willow Ridge Country Club
Golf Caddy
Fessenden School Lacrosse
Camp Counselor
Education
BA, Management
Gettysburg College, Gettysburg, Pennsylvania
Wilderness First Responder (WFR)
