Where did you attend field camp?

I attended the University of Washington’s field camp, which was located in the beautiful Pacific Northwest.

What did receiving the J. David Lowell Field Camp Scholarship mean to you?

For the last four years, I have been working full-time, while also attending school full-time. I’ve needed to do this in order to support myself and my family because I returned to finish my education in my late thirties. Field camp is so time intensive, I knew I would not be able to maintain a full-time working status. Receiving the J. David Lowell Field Camp Scholarship made it possible for me to cut down my work hours to less than part-time so that I could attend field camp. Without this capstone course, I would not have been able to complete my education and it was only possible with the assistance of this scholarship.

What did that experience teach you about the geosciences, yourself, and your future career?

This experience showed me that I am most definitely heading in the right direction with my life. Every day in the field felt natural to me—like I was meant to be doing that very thing. I have had many different jobs in my life, and I never would have imagined finding a profession like this. It would be hard to call it work when it really just feels like I am getting to explore structures and processes that fascinate me. Trying to unfold the history of earth structures and materials has the same wonderment as reading a captivating book, except this story is written within the Earth rather than on pages. I only wish I had realized that this is what I was meant to be doing much sooner in my life.

What opportunities did attending field camp provide that you wouldn’t have had otherwise?

The last two years of school were difficult because of COVID. Geology is not conducive to remote learning and not being able to meet other like-minded peers made networking almost impossible. Field camp was one of the few times I was able to spend time with professors and other students whom I have been taking classes with for the last two years. Prior to that, my only interactions with them were through the camera during remote classroom sessions.

In your opinion, how important is field camp for geoscience students?

The field camp experience is absolutely necessary for geoscience students as it allows students to apply their knowledge to real-life problems and environments. The field camp experience teaches students how to handle the social aspect of traveling, working, and living together while doing geologic fieldwork. It also helps students to fully understand all of the logistics required to successfully work in the field.

Why should individuals support field camp opportunities for students?

It is important that students receive support for field camp opportunities because the cost of them is usually quite high. Field camp is essential for geoscience students because it is a rare chance to apply everything that was learned during their university studies. It is saddening to think that others might not be able to pursue this educational path because the monetary cost is too great. For me completing my education was incredibly stressful, but having the financial support of the J. David Lowell Field Camp Scholarship gave me the ability to focus on school rather than how I was going to pay for it.

Where did you attend field camp?

I attended Western Michigan University’s Hydrogeology Field Course in Kalamazoo, Michigan.

What did receiving the J. David Lowell Field Camp Scholarship mean to you?

Receiving the J. David Lowell Field Camp Scholarship was an opportunity to expand my geologic horizons. I’ve learned that a great geologist doesn’t fit into one subsection of geology, a good geologist often knows a wide range of geologic fields. Being a geophysics major, the J. David Lowell Field Camp Scholarship allowed me to expand my geology knowledge and branch out into hydrogeology without having to worry about financial limitations.

What did that experience teach you about the geosciences, yourself, and your future career?

With the help of the David Lowell Field Camp Scholarship, I was able to take Western Michigan University’s Hydrogeology Field Course. I can honestly say that these last six weeks have been the most educational ones of my academic career. WMU’s field course covered a wide range of highly applicable topics. We started with geophysics and got hands-on experience with a wide range of geophysical equipment and methods. We then took a 40-hour HAZWOPER safety program to learn about workplace safety and receive our HAZWOPER certificates. Next was drilling week where we learned about well components, drilling methods, and were able to see many drilling operations in the field. Next was sampling week where we learned how to do low flow sampling, basic chemical testing, and how to valuably interpret the data we’d collected. Next was aquifer testing, where we performed various aquifer tests including slug tests and multi-well drawdown observation. Lastly, we learned about contamination and remediation. This is where we learned about a wide variety of remediation techniques and were able to see many of these techniques in use on some of Michigan’s Superfund sites.

What opportunities did attending field camp provide that you wouldn’t have had otherwise?

In addition to all these amazing classroom and hands-on experiences, we also met many great professionals who were eager to teach and talk to us about various hydrogeology-related fields. Each professional had their own wealth of knowledge, and it was a truly amazing opportunity to talk to them about what they do daily.

I was also nominated for a USGS NAGT internship!

In your opinion, how important is field camp for geoscience students?

I think field camps are monumentally important. Field camps bridge the disconnect between classroom learning and real-life application. There is a lot of information that is taught in the classroom and sometimes the link to application is lost. With field camps, you can see classroom principles in action and solidify information that will be beneficial to your career.

Why should individuals support field camp opportunities for students?

I believe that supporting field camp opportunities for students promotes and supports the advance of geologic discovery. As new advances, problems, and discoveries arise, the students of today will be the individuals that guide the future.

Where did you attend field camp?

I attended field camp through my geosciences department at Fort Hays State University. We spent July camping out and doing fieldwork throughout Utah, Arizona, and Colorado. We visited some truly remarkable geological sites, including Bryce Canyon, Zion, and Grand Canyon National Parks; Dinosaur National Monument; Meteor Crater; Monument Valley; Horseshoe Bend and Goosenecks State Parks; and the Royal Gorge.

What did receiving the J. David Lowell Field Camp Scholarship mean to you?

Field camp is required for my geology degree, but it was very expensive. As someone who comes from a low-income family, I am so grateful for the support I received from the J. David Lowell Field Camp Scholarship. It paid for half of my field camp costs, which made expenses more manageable. I am very honored to have received this award. Not only did it support me financially, but winning the award also gave me more confidence in myself and my potential as a field scientist.

What did that experience teach you about the geosciences, yourself, and your future career?

Field camp felt like a culmination of the past three years of my geology classes. I learned to apply my knowledge of mineralogy, petrology, structural geology, and sedimentology into real-world field settings. Though I have considerable paleontology field experience, my field camp taught me a completely different set of field skills. Throughout field camp, I progressively learned how to be a field geologist. At first, I asked a lot of questions to make sure I was doing the projects correctly. Over time, I learned that I already knew how to “think like a geologist,” and that I just needed to work on trusting myself and applying it to the physical world around me. By the end of field camp, I was much more confident and sure of my abilities as a field geologist.

What opportunities did attending field camp provide that you wouldn’t have had otherwise?

We camped in the field throughout July, setting up and tearing down camp every 2–3 days. Though camping in desert regions of the west in the middle of summer posed its own challenges, I think that working and living in harsh conditions was a valuable experience for me. My field camp experiences will serve me well throughout my career as a paleontologist. It also gave me the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see so many wonders of the North American west in one magnificent trip, while bonding with other professionals and future scientists.

In your opinion, how important is field camp for geoscience students?

To me, field camp is extremely important for geoscience students to understand themselves, the field of geology, the methods of fieldwork, and how to perceive and think about the geological world which surrounds us. As my professor told us, field camp is “a rite of passage” to becoming a practicing geologist and field scientist. I personally believe that field camp is an absolutely integral part and highlight of a geoscience student’s academic career.

Why should individuals support field camp opportunities for students?

There are students across the country in poor financial circumstances, like myself, who would really struggle to afford to attend field camp on their own. Generous people who support field camp opportunities make it possible for people like me to experience field camp, which was such a wonderful and vital opportunity for me. I am so grateful for the support I received from the J. David Lowell Field Camp Scholarship.

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.

On 28 November, #GivingTuesday, the GSA Foundation launches our year-end efforts to support field camp opportunities for students. You can help aspiring geoscientists attend field camp in 2024! Read about the life-changing experiences of previous student recipients on the Foundation blog with new stories posted weekly.

The Field Camp Scholarship program isn’t just about financial aid; it’s about kindling the fire of a promising future. It’s an investment in minds that will shape our understanding of Earth, our stewardship of its resources, and our ability to adapt to the challenges of an ever-changing world.

Your commitment to supporting the J. David Lowell Field Camp Scholarship Fund ensures that this fire continues to burn bright, nurturing talents that will shape the world we inhabit. Join us in erasing financial barriers, igniting possibilities, and uplifting the geoscientists of tomorrow! 

Make a gift of any size between Giving Tuesday and 31 December to help provide support for students to attend field camp in 2024.

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Interview with Alec Siurek

Where did you attend field camp?

I attended field camp at the Judson Mead Indiana University Geologic Field Station out in the Tobacco Root Mountains of southwestern Montana.

What did receiving the J. David Lowell Field Camp Scholarship mean to you?

For me, receiving the J. David Lowell Field Camp Scholarship meant that I was able to offset the cost of field camp by approximately 40%, and was the deciding factor for me in attending the IU Field Camp. Receiving this scholarship was huge for me, as it meant I was able to save a significant amount of the little money I make as a college student, and being able to attend field camp without the worry of having to pay back the loan I would have needed was a wonderful feeling.

What did that experience teach you about the geosciences, yourself, and your future career?

My experience at field camp only solidified my desire to embed myself in the geosciences. The course at the IU Geologic Field Station challenged my skills in fieldwork, note-taking, and structural geology, which I was always excited to face. Field camp certainly taught me how to take proper notes in the field, how to read the lithology of an area and use it in a more regional context, and overall gave me the necessary foundation to be a good field geologist. Field camp was tough, both physically and mentally challenging, but it was a challenge that got me out of my bunk every morning, as I found every day brought new experiences that I find myself missing more and more as time goes on. As for my career, I would love to continue research, especially in a place such as southwest Montana with its pristine exposures of rock and fascinating geological history. As of right now, I am torn between going on to get my Master’s degree and work with my state’s geologic survey, or getting my Ph.D. and teaching, as I have found that I love to help others to appreciate the wonders of the geosciences as I do.

What opportunities did attending field camp provide that you wouldn’t have had otherwise?

Attending field camp provided me with a way to prove to myself that my skills as a geologist are as sharp as they can be. Coming from northwest Indiana where the tallest feature around is Holocene sand dunes and overall lacking any good exposures of bedrock, getting to attend field camp in Montana was a unique experience that gave me more classical training than any field camp locally would have provided for me.

In your opinion, how important is field camp for geoscience students?

I think that field camp is absolutely necessary for geoscience students. While departments may make field camp attendance a requirement, I believe that it is necessary because of the experience that it gives you. Everyone in the geosciences always talks about how great of an experience field camp is and how life-changing it is, and after attending myself I couldn’t agree more with them.

Why should individuals support field camp opportunities for students?

Simply put, when you support field camp opportunities for students, you are supporting the next generation of geoscientists that will go on to do extraordinary things in their careers, especially in a time when understanding our interactions and impacts on our planet is crucial. Supporting field camp opportunities for students provides them with an incredible experience while helping to make this experience much more affordable.

As the sun sets on yet another day in the field, aspiring geoscientists gather around, sharing stories, discoveries, and dreams. They’re not just participants; they’re torchbearers for the future of geology. For many geologists, field camp is more than just an important educational journey. The boots-on-the-ground experience, where theoretical knowledge becomes tangible reality, catalyzes a profound transformation. Aspiring geoscientists immerse themselves in the terrain, meticulously observing, collecting data, and interpreting geologic features. This hands-on engagement is where academic pursuits fuse with field skills, forging experts who can navigate between their training and the untamed Earth.

This isn’t just an academic exercise; it’s an immersive experience in geological education—the field camp. For generations, this capstone venture has sculpted geologists, melding classroom theories with real-world encounters. However, as the cost of participation steadily rises, generous supporters of The Geological Society of America Foundation (GSAF) step in, ensuring that passionate learners are able to take advantage of these formative experiences. Here’s why supporting the J. David Lowell Field Camp Scholarship program through GSAF is crucial.

BREAKING BARRIERS, FOSTERING DREAMS

Despite its undeniable value, the cost of attending field camp continues to grow, placing a barrier before many deserving scientists. The J. David Lowell Field Camp Scholarship Fund stands as a testament to the geoscience community’s dedication to developing the future of the geosciences. The ripple effect of this support extends beyond the classroom and the field, cultivating a new generation of analytical thinkers and problem solvers.

PIONEERING TOMORROW’S EXPERTS

The numbers speak volumes. Over the past decade, GSA has enabled nearly 200 students to partake in field camp experiences that might otherwise have been beyond their reach. Each individual with this opportunity brings unique perspectives, diverse narratives, and fresh ideas to the geoscience table. This rich tapestry of minds fuels innovation and fuels the evolution of the field itself.

Supporting the Field Camp Scholarship program isn’t just about financial aid; it’s about kindling the fire of a promising future. It’s an investment in minds that will shape our understanding of Earth, our stewardship of its resources, and our ability to adapt to the challenges of an ever-changing world.

Your commitment to supporting the J. David Lowell Field Camp Scholarship Fund ensures that this fire continues to burn bright, nurturing talents that will shape the world we inhabit. Join us in erasing financial barriers, igniting possibilities, and sculpting the geoscientists of tomorrow! Learn more by visiting gsa-foundation.org/fund/field-camp-opportunities/ or contacting Debbie Marcinkowski at dmarcinkowski@geosociety.org.

Left: Mable Hagans, 2022. Right: Alina Hernandez, 2021. J. David Lowell Field Camp Scholarship Recipients.

Sydney Cloutier made invaluable connections at the GSA Connects meeting that have the potential to launch her career post-graduation as a result of her participation in the OTF program.

What was the most impactful aspect of your OTF experience?

The funding was a significant aspect of my OTF experience, as without that, I would not have been able to attend GSA Connects. At the meeting, the program offerings that GSA ran for us were incredibly impactful for me. I was exposed to a vast number of awards and internships that I otherwise wouldn’t have known of and was presented with in-depth information on topics such as the [NSF] GRFP, which I will be applying for in the fall. I also had the chance to speak with a representative for NASA, which is where I hope to work in the future. Additionally, through the OTF programs, I met with a representative from ASBOG, who helped me to begin designing a course for undergraduate seniors and graduate students to prepare for the Fundamentals of Geology exam at the University of Miami. I also found out that my school’s Sigma Gamma Epsilon (Earth Science Honor Society) chapter is currently inactive, despite us holding meetings. Representatives of SGE were able to aid me in the reactivation of our chapter.

What do you remember most from GSA 2022?

One day, I decided to walk to a sandwich shop for lunch. I got lost along the way and did an extra lap around the block. Unbeknownst to be, that delay placed me right in front of a planetary geology graduate student in line. When it came time to place my order, the graduate student overheard the cashier asking me what field of geology I wanted to pursue. After ordering, he asked to sit with me, seeing as how all the tables were full, and I was able to form a great connection and pick his brain about graduate school. I also want to study planetary geology, and it turned out that the school he was attending is my first-choice school. It was an incredible and bizarre experience, but one I won’t forget. I feel that it speaks volumes about the impact GSA can have on our lives and the opportunities that can present themselves at the conference if you are willing to step out of your comfort zone.

What was your mentorship experience like? Would you consider returning to serve as a mentor?

I ended up not getting much of an opportunity to connect with my mentor. That said, I would love to return as a mentor one day. I feel that a lot of aspects of the field of geology are very word of mouth. It’s hard to understand what grad schools, employers, and award committees are looking for if you aren’t in the know. Once I enter grad school and gain some experience, I want to become a mentor for GSA. I know how hard it is to figure everything out for yourself, so I want to pass my knowledge and expertise down to the future generation of geologists.

Why should donors support programs like OTF?

Donors should support OTF because it provides the next generation of geoscientists a chance to jumpstart their careers and education in a setting that otherwise may not be feasible for them. Attending GSA can be costly, particularly for full-time students. Donating what may seem like an insignificant amount can ultimately be the start of a young geoscientist’s career. Supporting us supports the future of geology.

At GSA Connects 2022, Shad Ashton had the opportunity to hear from professionals in the geosciences and bolter his conviction that a successful career was within his reach.

What was the most impactful aspect of your OTF experience?

I really appreciated the Saturday workshop where we were able to hear our mentors’ stories. When I think about people that have been in their careers for a while, I mostly think about the success that got them there. Many people don’t like to talk about their struggles or how they have made it this far in their careers. I appreciated the humility it took for our presenters to be willing to share with us their struggles and to remind us that everyone struggles with one thing or another. Even though the experiences were diverse, I was able to link an experience that happened to me among the ones that they were willing to share.

What do you remember most from GSA 2022?

I remember the friendliness of people that attended. They were willing to connect with me and help me feel more comfortable. Even though it was busy with people trying to get to and from lectures they would stop to help point someone in the direction of a classroom that they were looking for. I loved how much authors of projects embraced their work and shared as much as they could about the project that they were currently working on and/or just finished. It helped me feel more comfortable and willing to listen when those authors were enthusiastic. I also remember some of those authors pointing out certain booths for organizations or schools that could potentially help me further deepen my knowledge and skills on the subject.

What was your mentorship experience like? Would you consider returning to serve as a mentor?

At the time, my current supervisor was willing to reach out to a past colleague and have me email her before the conference to set up a time to meet at the conference. I was able to meet my mentor and she was willing to give me input on questions I asked for my career of what I could pursue and what lectures may interest me at GSA. She was also able to introduce me to a colleague or two. Which helped me build me network. I would consider returning to serve as a mentor at GSA and help others to build their skills, network, and confidence in their professions.

For Sarah Genet, matching with her OTF mentor led to a greater network of contacts and interest in a future in the geosciences.

What was the most impactful aspect of your OTF experience?

The mentor I was matched with through the OTF program. I was able to meet many of her colleagues, and I built a professional relationship that went deeper than general networking with someone in the professional field that I was interested in. This was also what was most memorable from my GSA 2022 experience.

What was your mentorship experience like? Would you consider returning to serve as a mentor?

I was very happy with my mentorship experience. My mentor shared so many contacts with me and introduced me into the network of the field I was interested in, which affirmed my interest and dedication to pursue that realm in my professional career. I would definitely consider returning to serve as a mentor so that I would also be able to make an impact on a young student in the geosciences, too.

Why should donors support programs like OTF?

Donors should support OTF and other related programs because it allows students who would otherwise not be able to attend the conference due to funding issues, which was the case for myself.

The OTF program gave Sabrina Lanker an opportunity to build her network and future that is still paying dividends for her today.

What was the most impactful aspect of your OTF experience?

The most impactful aspects were definitely attending a Division meeting and meeting with my mentor. I met a professor in the Division meeting that I am hoping to work with for grad school and we have been in contact still!

What do you remember most from GSA 2022?

I remember making my life map including where I came from, where I am now, and my future goals. This was a super reflective exercise for me and it made me feel so proud of where I came from and where I am now. I was almost brought to tears when I presented my map to my group. I can’t wait to see what the future brings.

What was your mentorship experience like? Would you consider returning to serve as a mentor?

My mentor was amazing! We met at the conference and went to dinner, where we talked about everything from grad school to navigating relationships and family life with a career in science. She really inspired me and made me want to pursue a career in geosciences. I would definitely consider being a mentor in the future.

Why should donors support programs like OTF?

Donors should support this program because it allows people who would otherwise not be able to attend a conference to attend, network, and unlock future opportunities.