Big Bend National Park, West Texas
Geology students travel to West Texas for field experience
(March 13, 2003)--University of Texas at San Antonio associate professor
of geology Stuart Birnbaum, graduate assistant Bob Janusz and
10 undergraduate Honors College geology students recently traveled to Big
Bend National Park in West Texas for a hands-on scientific view of the study
of geology.
Each day the students climbed mountains and discussed the various rock formations
they encountered.
"I think it challenges students and provides them with a unique experience
that not many undergraduates have a chance to experience," said Birnbaum.
"Through the Honors College, we have the opportunity to show students
what geology is really like."
The trip to Big Bend was also a bonding experience for the classmates who
got to know each other more personally. Seven days in the mountains without
cell phones or TV forced the students to find other means of entertaining
themselves.
Some played music on the guitar, some climbed mountains to overcome their
fear of heights, while others just rested and conversed with their classmates.
"I was surprised how a group of people with so little experience learned
so much and were able to hold intellectual discussions using geology terminology,”
said Lollie Boudrie, Honors College geology student.
The trip was such a positive experience that the group is planning another
geological field trip for next summer.
Visit the UTSA Department of Earth and Environmental Science and the College of Sciences Web sites.
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© The University of Texas at San Antonio, 2003