Reflections from UGA Academics Afield Intern, Kylie Hildreth
Academics Afield truly shaped the trajectory of my life. Learning the “way of the woods” through this program introduced me to a new passion and joy—connecting with nature through hunting. Being a participant was an incredible experience that taught me so much. The skills I gained made me want to turn around and teach all of my friends who, like me, didn’t grow up hunting. And that’s exactly what I did!
During my first season, thanks to what I learned through Academics Afield, I harvested two does and two ducks. That life-changing experience, and the new sense of identity it gave me, inspired me to share this passion with others—hoping they might discover the same love for the outdoors. I applied to be the UGA Academics Afield Coordinator and was ecstatic when I found out I got the position.
This past year has been such a blessing. I had the chance to teach 12 mentees about hunting and shooting sports, all while continuing to grow my own skills. Our group took part in a dove hunt, two doe hunts, a duck hunt, and a sporting clays tournament. Watching their faces light up—even just seeing signs of wildlife—was incredibly rewarding.
That’s what hunting is about: going outdoors to enjoy God’s creation and soaking in every detail—from the dew on oak leaves, to the vibrant sunrises in the woods, to the full-circle experience of harvesting a deer and turning it into food for the table that same day.
This past season, our participants harvested 3 doves, 2 wood ducks, 1 goose, 6 deer, and hit 100 sporting clays. But more importantly, they made lasting memories and gained experiences they’ll carry with them for the rest of their lives.
After the UGA Academics Afield deer hunt, the hosts invited mentors back to harvest a doe or cull buck. I was the only one able to make it. That December evening, I sat with the property manager as we watched the sun begin to set. About 45 minutes before sunset, a massive 4-year-old buck stepped out. I didn’t expect it, but the property manager told me to take the shot. That day, I harvested my first antlered deer. Tracking it through the woods was such an exciting, unforgettable experience. Just the other day, I picked up my mount—a piece that will forever remind me of that story and the journey it represents.
I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity to share my love for the outdoors with others. Thank you, Academics Afield, for giving me a lifelong passion I will always cherish.
The Georgia R3 Initiative is a cooperative effort between Georgia Wildlife Federation, Georgia Department of Natural Resources Wildlife Resources Division, National Wild Turkey Federation, the Georgia Chapter of Safari Club International, and Ducks Unlimited. Thank you to the National Shooting Sports Foundation and Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s Outdoor Fund for continued support of the Academics Afield program.
About Georgia Wildlife Federation
Georgia Wildlife Federation was founded as a sportsman’s organization in 1936 and is Georgia’s oldest conservation organization. Today, members include hunters, anglers, bird watchers, hikers, educators, and all Georgians who are interested in preserving our natural resources and outdoor heritage.
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