Over spring break, 43 Northern Michigan University students and faculty members traveled to St. John, U.S. Virgin Islands, for immersive field courses in marine and terrestrial ecology, research, and destination catering. The experience provided hands-on learning opportunities in diverse environmental and culinary settings and fostered interdisciplinary collaboration.
Throughout the week, students camped at Cinnamon Bay in Virgin Islands National Park, fully immersing themselves in their surroundings. Led by NMU Biology Department Head Jill Leonard, the group participated in four courses designed to deepen their understanding of tropical ecology and environmental science.
Field Marine Biology students snorkeled through coral reefs, conducted biodiversity surveys and studied marine ecosystems, including fish, coral, turtles and mangroves. Students in Island Terrestrial Ecology explored the island's landscapes, assessed biodiversity, and studied birds, bats, insects and plant ecology. The Advanced Field Marine Biology course allowed experienced students to conduct independent research projects. Throughout the trip, these students collected data and will present their findings at NMU's Celebration of Student Scholarship in April.
“I think primarily students got to experience a new environment, which for biologists is always an amazing experience,” Leonard said. “Seeing new organisms and being able to observe them in their natural habitat is always a gift. The students got to try out new science techniques, collect data, and work together on small projects. They also really get to know the other students as well as their professors, building relationships and networks that last into the future. The trip went great. All our travel went well, and the weather cooperated so that students were able to do all the planned activities.”
Beyond biology, students in the Destination Catering course played a vital role during the trip by preparing meals for their peers and learning about island cuisine. They met with local chefs and hosted an island-style dinner, adding a cultural and culinary dimension to the experience.
Dominic Mrakovcich, sound and media supervisor and engineer in NMU Theatre and Dance, also joined the trip to capture natural sounds from the island environment. His recordings will be used in computer-generated music compositions and a developing sound library.
