Shared by Rachel Blevins, Park Interpreter Hungry Mother State Park, as Guest Blogger.

A while back, as I sat in a staff meeting at Hungry Mother State Park, our District Manager asked us the rhetorical question, “Why do you do what you do?” As I left that meeting, I felt a sense of relief knowing Labor Day had come and gone and the “busier” season had come to an end. I began to reflect on this past summer and asked myself, why I do what I do.

Officially, my job would be titled a “Park Interpreter," however, on countless instances I’ve been asked “Well, what language do you interpret?” In response, I say I get to interpret nature. Usually that answer strikes a few confused looks form park guests.

Interpreting nature can be alot of fun

Yep, I interpret nature. So, what does that exactly mean? Well, I get to “play” outside all summer long. I get to canoe, lead guided hikes, and looks for bugs in the creek.

But WHY do I do what I do?

Why do I sacrifice my entire summer to spend countless hours out in the humid summer heat? Why after a 10 hour day do I still take the time to talk to every park visitor I run into? Why do I hike to the top of Molly’s knob with one park guest on an unusually warm summer day in June?

The view from the top of Molly's Knob is worth the hike

Well it’s simple.

I do what I do because the saying “summer vacation” means so much more when you work at a state park. It’s an infinite number of memories to be made with family and friends. I do what I do because when a 5 year old boy that attended your fishing program catches his first fish, you suddenly forget about how hot and humid it is. Why do I take the time to meet park visitors? Because everyone comes from somewhere and has their own story, but at the same time, they’re at your park. They chose to spend their summer vacation at your park and it’s your turn to tell the story of your park.

State park experiences makes state parks passions

I do what I do because I get to meet so many visitors, hear about their adventures and how much they love the park. Often times, I take for granted the subsequent beauty that our parks offer but am quickly reminded when I meet someone that has never seen the mountains before.

I do what I do because I love meeting our future educators, scientists, and even park rangers. I love when park guests come to one of my programs and leave with a greater appreciation of the “slimy Salamander” or the tiny little wildflower that would often times go unnoticed.

Love of the outdoors is contagious

I do what I do because I’m passionate about what I do. I’m constantly inspired by those that I’ve met and that I have yet to meet. And frankly, being a “Park Interpreter” makes me feel like a rock star.

So when you sit down to make your family’s vacation plans take time to look at the events planned at your destination park. They were made with you in mind.