Katie Simkover
Field Guide
Joined Open Sky: May 2011
In Wilderness Therapy since: 2011
Interview with Katie Simkover
May 2011
Q: If you were able to meet anyone (living or dead), who would it be and why?
A: I would like to meet the late nature writer, Edward Abbey. I read Desert Solitaire while I was completing trail work in the Southwest area. His words describing the intense, arid, and harsh climate of the desert ran true to my surroundings.
Q: What are a few of the defining moments in your life and why?
A: Realizing I can't work a nine to five in an office and knowing that I want to reach my full potential in jobs in the Outdoor Field. Also, graduating college during the height of the recession and becoming financially independent from my parents.
Q: Who has been your greatest inspiration and why?
A: Numerous people inspire me on a daily basis. I would say any individual I see who is living their life in a health-conscious and environmentally-conscious manner. I am inspired by people who provide for others in need, sometimes before their own needs. I am inspired by people who pursue their outdoor recreation passions.
Q: What are your unique gifts and/or experiences that help our students?
A: I am an honest and open communicator who enjoys both listening and sharing. I have a light-hearted sense of humor and make people feel comfortable in their surroundings. I feel compassion towards people who want to improve their lives, and would love to help them along their journey.
Q: Why do you work in wilderness therapy?
A: I have seen positive change in my own confidence, spirituality, and self by working and living outdoors. I truly believe this type of therapy works, and I want to be directly involved with it. I want to see individuals reach their true potential by connecting with their present environment, selves, and other individuals.
Q: Why do you think wilderness therapy works?
A: I think when we live simply among nature in a communal setting, we are nurturing our mind, body, and spirit. I think that by surviving outdoors with limited resources develops positive images of self-worth among individuals. I also think that living within a close community that works together to provide the basic needs for their fellow human, develops compassionate individuals.
Q: What do you think Open Sky students need?
A: I think they need to feel comfortable in the field, both physically and emotionally. I think the students need people they can communicate with openly and honestly. I think they need to feel trusted and feel like they can trust one another within the community.
Q: What do you like to do for fun when you aren’t working in the field?
A: I enjoy being active, socializing, and eating well. I like cooking vegetarian meals, and going to potlucks. I love dancing to live music, especially with a great horn section. I enjoy yoga, running, climbing, and playing on the river.
Q: Anything else you want to tell us about yourself?
A: No thanks.
Professional Experience
Dreams of Tibet, Durango, Colorado
Primary Sales
Southwest Conservation Corps, Durango, Colorado
Backcountry Crewleader
Long Range Planning Department
Planning Intern
National Bridges State Park, Santa Cruz, California
Marine Ecosystem and Tide Pool Teacher for Kids
Student Environment Center - University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, California
Campaign Coordinator
Education
BA, Environmental Studies
University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, California
Wilderness First Responder (WFR)
