Where did you attend field camp?
The University of California, Riverside, conducted my field camp, where I stayed at the following four University of California research stations: Crooked Creek, Barcroft, SNARL, and Owens Valley.
What did receiving the J. David Lowell Field Camp Scholarship mean to you?
Receiving the J. David Lowell Field Camp Scholarship allowed me to complete the undergraduate part of my academic journey without adding an economic burden on my family. It covered tuition and essential supplies, including a hiking backpack and shoes.
What did that experience teach you about the geosciences, yourself, and your future career?
Going to field camp after being a student during COVID-19 taught me practical skills I could not learn from online classes. It also taught me that I was strong enough to map a large area in extreme heat, work with a great group of students that I did not know well going into the camp, and that I could not only overcome my challenges but thrive in the field of geology and love it.
What opportunities did attending field camp provide that you wouldn’t have had otherwise?
Field camp was a transforming experience for me. I had minimal field experience before attending, and now I feel very confident with mapping, using a Brunton to locate myself on a map, taking measurements in the field, and with my physical abilities to complete a more extensive mapping project.
In your opinion, how important is field camp for geoscience students?
Field camp is essential for geoscience students to gain practical skills, confidence, independence, teamwork, problem-solving skills, and safety awareness. It was challenging but allowed for personal and professional growth, readying us for our next steps, whether a job or graduate school.
Why should individuals support field camp opportunities for students?
The ability for students to attend field camps can have many obstacles, from costs to time and logistics. With the support of individuals, the financial barrier can be removed, helping students to achieve their goals and prepare them for the future.
