THOR Institute Virtual Open House

From the Classroom to the Coast: Discover Your Career with the THOR Institute

Maine isn’t just a place to live—it’s a world-class destination. Whether it’s the rugged trails of the North Woods, the bustling hospitality of our coastal towns, or the sustainable future of our recreation industry, the opportunities here are as vast as our landscape.

On Wednesday, May 6, from 7:00 to 8:00 PM, the THOR Institute (Tourism, Hospitality, and Outdoor Recreation) invites you to a Virtual Open House to see how the University of Maine System can turn your passion for “Vacationland” into a professional reality.

This isn’t your average lecture. You’ll meet the faculty who are shaping the industry and learn about our unique system-wide THOR Minor—a flexible, collaborative program that allows students at any UMS campus to add specialized tourism and recreation expertise to their degree. You’ll also discover our Vacationland experiential courses, where students step off campus to work on real-world projects with local partners.

Whether you are a high school student dreaming of a career outdoors, a parent looking for high-growth pathways, or a counselor guiding the next generation, this hour is designed for you. This session provides a comprehensive look at the collaborative educational pathways available across the UMS network, including:

  • The THOR Minor: How to add this versatile, system-wide credential to your academic journey.
  • Interdisciplinary Programs: How we integrate tourism, hospitality, and outdoor recreation.
  • Experiential Learning: A deep dive into “Vacationland” courses that connect students with industry partners.
  • Faculty Networking: Direct access to the educators and collaborators leading these initiatives.

Join us to explore a collaborative network that spans the entire state. Your Maine adventure starts here.

If you have questions, feel free to reach out to Emily Zider, the Program Manager, at emily.zider@maine.edu.

Register for the Open House here!