Study Notes on Summer Semester Course Planning and Future Career Aspirations

Chapter 1: Deadlines

  • Mentioned having many deadlines coinciding with the start of the semester.

  • Inquiry about classes, response: they are good.

Chapter 2: Course Discussions

  • Excitement expressed about current semester courses.

  • Courses discussed:

    • Evolution

    • Involvement with John Finstead as the professor.

    • Previous struggles with exams noted; however, expectation of improved performance due to familiarity with the professor's style.

    • Mention of tutoring services available for this class, costing approximately $300.

    • Tutoring is provided through Applied Tutoring services.

    • Another course mentioned:

    • Climate Change Impact on Marine Systems taught by Dr. Holdley.

    • The professor's connection noted; involvement with grad committees.

    • Remote learning format discussed; first meeting held through Zoom.

    • Excitement conveyed for the subject matter. Mention of textbook and papers required for discussions and presentations noted.

  • Clarification on major and minor studies.

    • Current studies: Applied Liberal Arts and Sciences and minors in Brain Science and Photography.

    • Upcoming course on photographic studio lighting referenced; made a connection with the professor through prior courses.

  • Exploration of post-graduation goals discussed:

    • Desire to work in conservation, specifically with endangered animals.

    • Contact with Georgia Sea Turtle Center for volunteer opportunities noted.

    • Planning to pursue a postbaccalaureate program to improve GPA and take additional pre-veterinary courses.

    • Research experience and volunteering highlighted as priorities.

  • Recommended contacts for conservation: Ruth Carmichael (marine mammals program), emphasis on the importance of networking and personal connections regarding grad school.

  • Discussion on flexibility in grad programs and the reality of funding limitations.

    • Importance of being adaptive to opportunities presented by advisors emphasized, including potential projects not aligning perfectly with personal interests.

  • Mention of experiences in practical settings, including working in labs, seeking to build practical skills related to marine biology.

    • Engagement in lab environments to gather research experience encouraged.

  • Exploration of specific labs and professors discussed, focusing on experiences within departments relevant to marine science.

    • Specific mentions of Dr. Fred Andrews and Dr. Emily Elliott, and their focus areas related to coastal restoration and geology noted.

  • Conversations about specific experiences in marine geology class highlighted. Hands-on field experiences and learning outcomes discussed.

  • Interest in coastal geology expressed, juxtaposed with prior experiences in marine science being valuable for future career aspirations.

  • Concerns about potential research focus on barrier island erosion and conservation strategies explored further.

    • Sand movement and budget discussed, referring back to marine geology learning.

  • Research areas outlined:

    • Importance of understanding sand movement in coastal environments and challenges of engineered interventions.

  • Lab meetings scheduled to provide further opportunities for engagement and skills development. Request for continued correspondence for mentorship and advice established.

  • Connection emphasized between academic goals and practical experiences, urging the establishment of relationships with faculty and peers in relevant fields.

  • Several resource and advice-giving exchanges in relation to departmental procedures emphasized:

    • Importance of open communication with professors about course requirements and offerings, registration timing.

    • Emphasis on helping individuals navigate academic paths effectively, including potential independent studies.

  • Discussions about leadership and involvement in academic clubs noted, aims to enhance engagement with peers and educational opportunities.

  • Mention of upcoming trips related to marine science clubs to significant geological sites, underscoring the experiential learning philosophy.

  • Final motivations and reflections related to the transition from undergraduate studies to professional development noted, reinforcing proactive steps for success.