Nathan's Story

Understanding the importance of time management and gaining the confidence to lead is what sophomore Nathan Tembo says he has found most beneficial from being an employee with RecWell’s Forest Creason Golf Course.

Tembo has lived in Bowling Green, OH for most of his life but originates from Zambia, Africa. His family moved to Bowling Green when he was 5 years old and he has been here ever since. He is majoring in chemistry and has always been intrigued by the subject. “I had a good high school chemistry teacher that made me want to learn more.” Tembo said.  He is hoping to use his degree in Chemistry for his dream job which is to contribute to the non-profit organization Feed My Starving Children in creating new nutritious foods for malnourished children in third world countries of Africa. Tembo is a member of the BGSU student organization, Feed my Starving Children, and is a Young Life Leader for Bowser High School paired with students in Toledo, OH.

Before working at Forest Creason, I had only played Mini-golf, but in my time here, I have learned the basics of the sport and enjoy it. When Tembo began his collegiate career at BGSU in January of 2015, he started immediately searching for employment and found the Golf Course Attendant position through WorkNet. “Before working at Forest Creason, I had only played Mini-golf, but in my time here, I have learned the basics of the sport and enjoy it.” Tembo is responsible for stocking inventory in the pro shop, helping customers, booking tee times, and assisting with course events such as golf outings and leagues.

I love my job. It's laid back and I love all of the regular customers.
Tembo’s position at the Forest Creason Golf Course has not only helped him gain professional skills, but has also sparked a hobby for golfing. “Working at Forest Creason has made me interested in playing golf for fun after college,” Tembo said. A teaching and learning environment is fostered by course director, Kurt Thomas, who encourages student staff, some with a golfing background and some without, to join the employment team. Tembo states, “I love my job. It's laid back and I love all of the regular customers. By working here, I’ve learned how to hold the club, use the driving range, etiquette of the game, and even find myself tuning into the Golf Channel to keep up with professional play.”

Tembo reflects on how working at Forrest Creason can help students gain new and beneficial professional skills. “By working at the course, I have learned about time management and also to be part of a team. All of the students who work at the course help each other through situations – together we are committed to making sure the work gets done,” Tembo said.