Biology Group Studies Marine Life on St. John

A group of Northern Michigan University students enrolled in the advanced field marine biology course spent spring break on St. John in the U.S. Virgin Islands, learning about marine science and how to identify ocean organisms.

"I never thought I would be able to experience something like that going to school in the Midwest," said student Jeannine Doyle, "The diversity of life in the ocean and on the island is inspiring. The care that the people of the island put into their environment is something everyone can learn from. I learned valuable marine science methods and lessons that will help guide me in future educational and career journeys."

"We did a lot of snorkeling" said Jill Leonard, head of the NMU Biology Department, who accompanied the group. "One day we did a hike, then got picked up by a boat and went snorkeling off the boat. We were also able to have some evening presentations about St. John. Students find these type of experiences transformative. They get to see and do the science that they're really interested in, and they're immersed in it with other folks who are just as passionate about these type of questions as they are."

Some students participating had little travel experience or had never snorkeled. Embedding this opportunity into their curriculum solidified their aspirations and allowed them to see a potential future in their field.

"I spoke with a student who's super jazzed up after the trip," added Leonard. "She's going to spend the summer in Costa Rica, because she just did this course and it confirmed for her that she really does want to do marine biology."

The Biology Department is in the planning stages for a similar trip next year, then will travel there every other year.

For updates and more information visit nmu.edu/biology/ or visit NMU Biology Department Facebook Page.

Group photo on the St. John shoreline