'firsthand appreciation' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase when you want to refer to a firsthand experience or knowledge of something. For example, "The teacher's firsthand appreciation of the material enabled him to explain it in an engaging way."
The centerpiece of that effort has been a push for officials to mix with the masses and gain a firsthand appreciation of their hopes and grievances.
He has gained a firsthand appreciation for China's porous legal system, he said, and for the naked rapaciousness of public officials.
Mr. Meyers worked several full-time jobs to help cover the $7,500 tuition as an economics major at Brandeis — giving him firsthand appreciation of the benefits a private loan could have provided.
Patrick began his career in international development as a Peace Corps volunteer in Swaziland, where he gained a firsthand appreciation for the importance of integrating issues of education, health, economic development, and governance.
As a member of the U.S. EPA Great Lakes Advisory Board and head of Shedd Aquarium's Great Lakes program, my travels have allowed me to witness firsthand how appreciation and everlasting family bonds are shaped by experiences along the lakes.
Never prudish, he knew the exuberant life of the London streets, bawdy houses, fairs, and theatres firsthand and derived from them a fertile appreciation of the vitality of popular tradition.
While this setting did not allow much for firsthand exposure to the arts, my parents instilled in me a great appreciation for artistic expression, insisting that I study piano and listen to opera.
Halperin has firsthand knowledge.
He feels austerity firsthand.
It's firsthand experience".
No firsthand designer clothes.
