Expedition Hunting & Angling Scholars
Hunting & Angling Scholars participate in experiential learning activities outside of their academic pathway to enhance their education and make connections with industry leaders in the outdoor field.
Exploring Interests.
As an HA Scholar, you'll explore the ways hunting, fishing, land management, media production, conservationism, safety, and promotion of the great outdoors connect through coursework, projects, and storytelling opportunities.
In collaboration with Rusted Rooster Media, a Nationally known and award-winning outdoor production company, and other partners, scholars will learn what it takes to excel in a variety of outdoor-related careers, strategies from experts in the field, and how to apply their new skills gained from participating in outdoor adventures like salmon fishing, turkey hunting, and more.
Expanding Connections.
HA Scholars develop meaningful connections with their fellow students, instructors, and industry leaders from a wide-range of outdoor-related careers.
Experiencing Adventure.
HA Scholars participate in exciting experiential learning outdoor-related trips and collaborative projects involving their fellow students, instructors, community members, and industry leaders. Scholars will also promote outdoor heritage by sharing their stories, creating digital content, and managing social channels.
Related Academic Pathways.
Expedition Hunting & Angling Scholars can pursue any academic pathway, but there are several outdoor-related pathways that have been developed for outdoor enthusiasts.
- Conservation Officer
- Outdoor Industry Entrepreneur
- Outdoor Media (Career-Ready and Transfer-Focused Options)
“I’ve been immersed in a career in the outdoor industry for over 20 years and can honestly say I can’t imagine being a part of anything else. The Expedition Hunting & Angling Scholars and Outdoor Media pathway will connect students to real-world opportunities that currently exist,” said Jason Brown, Co-Founder and Executive Producer at Rusted Rooster Media. “There’s a true lack of talented individuals who also possess an outdoor skill-set in many areas of the industry, so building a feeder system for outdoor brands, marketing agencies, as well as media and production houses has never been more important.”
Help Expand HA Scholar Opportunities!
Support HA Scholars and their experiential learning opportunities by clicking the button below or donating via check made payable to “Mid Foundation” and mailed to 1375 S. Clare Avenue, Harrison, MI 48625. Please include Hunting & Angling Scholars in the memo line.
Program Testimonials
Connecting interests and academics to career opportunities
During my time as an Expedition Hunting and Angling Scholar at Mid, I was able to enroll in outdoor-focused coursework, attend outdoor-related events, and experience adventures. The Outdoor Media Transfer Pathway connected me with industry professionals and current conservation officers that increased my chances of being selected as a Conservation Officer Candidate. I have since been offered and accepted the role of candidate and am currently in the Conservation Officer Academy.
—Marc, Mid Student
I am an instructor at Mid Michigan College for outdoor-related pathways and I'm also involved with the Expedition Hunting & Angling Scholars (HAS). As a Michigan Conservation Officer, I see the benefits of an outdoor-focused education and the immersive experiences available through HAS. Both of these opportunities provide students with practical skills and knowledge related to hunting, fishing, and the outdoors, which will help them become intuitive outdoor storytellers, conservation officers, or outdoor entrepreneurs.
—Daniel Robinson
Social Media Links & Feeds Coming Soon!
Hunting and Angling Scholars Advisory Council
- Jason Brown | Co-founder of Rusted Rooster Media and BeAlive
- Kirk Cabanilla | Alaska Commercial Fisherman/Athletic Trainer
- Jeremy Payne | Lieutenant of the Department of Natural Resources
- Jeff Poet | President and CEO of Jay’s Sporting Goods
- Erik Spindler | Executive Administrator of the Morey Foundation
- Scott Govitz | Associate VP of Workforce and Economic Development
- Amy Lince | Executive Assistant to the President and Board of Trustees
- Nivia McDonald | Administrative Specialist to the Mid Michigan College Foundation
- Scott Mertes | VP of Community Outreach and Advancement
- JJ Mertz | HA Scholars Director and Full-Time Math Faculty
- Tom Olver | Associate VP of the Mid Foundation
- Chris Pellerito | Mid Admissions Representative
- Jeff Percha | Full-Time Science/Biology Faculty
- Richard Smith | Associate Dean of Off-Campus Instruction
- Shawn Troy | Dean of Workforce and Career Education
- Eric Wittig | Mid Mentor
Recommended Links