David Govatski ‘76
I liked to get my hands dirty as opposed to learning theory. That theory is important, but I’d rather put it into practice.
Why did you choose Unity for your degree?
I had a choice between a few other universities, but I figured I’d check out Unity, and it appealed to me. The rural location and the opportunities, the instructors that were there. It worked out well for me.
What made your Unity experience special to you?
I liked to get my hands dirty as opposed to learning theory. That theory is important, but I’d rather put it into practice. I had a few very inspirational professors who taught mini-terms in December. It was 40 hours a week for three weeks, and we would go on field trips and learn a multitude of skills. We had a course on logging, driving skid steers, blacksmithing, and how to work with horses. Each mini-term we learned something new, and I really enjoyed taking them.
Where are you currently working?
I am retired now but still keeping busy. I work with hotels doing Stefan bus tours, nature tours, and presentations at hotels during the foliage season. Then the rest of the year I do programs and guided hikes. I’m dedicated to the natural environment and doing conservation work, and so I do a lot of volunteer work in my retirement.
What did you learn through Unity that prepared you for your career?
I took a course on surveying and tree identification. Another course that helped me understand what bedrock is was a geology course that had us go out in the field in Acadia National Park.
What advice would you give current Unity students as they prepare to enter the workforce?
I worked with a lot of Unity grads who are in the Forest Service, in the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, National Park Service, and I would say try to get as much experience as you can get in a variety of fields. Work on these different experiences and try to take internships wherever you can. I believe in continuing education, and you should devote 2% of your income to continuing your education.
