Marine Biology Immersion: Student Dives into Hands-on Learning Experience

Cold Plunge: How One Student Gained Hands-on Experience in Marine Biology In a unique educational experience, Matthew Kim, a University of New Brunswick graduate with a degree in marine biology, spent three months immersed in field-based courses as part of the marine semester program. The program, which ran from September to late November 2024, allowed students to conduct their own research projects and gain hands-on experience in marine biology. According to Kim, who shared his experiences on social media, one of the most challenging aspects of the program was conducting fieldwork in the cold waters of the North Atlantic. "We would take out a five-metre-long fishing net, drag it through the water, and then pull it up to shore to see what fish we caught," Kim explained. "The water was so cold that by the end of the program, we had become accustomed to the temperature." Kim's research project focused on sampling tidal pools, but he also assisted his peers with their projects. One such project, led by Brian Pallett, explored how coastal fish populations change due to factors like water temperature and time of day. "We would often conduct our fieldwork at night, around 11 p.m., when the water was even colder," Kim said. The marine semester program provided students with a unique opportunity to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings. According to Dr. Liam Brennan, who supervised the program, this hands-on experience is essential for students pursuing careers in marine biology. "By immersing themselves in fieldwork, our students gain a deeper understanding of the complexities and challenges involved in marine research," Brennan said. The program's focus on experiential learning has implications for society as a whole. As Dr. Brennan noted, "Marine biology is not just about studying fish and other organisms; it's also about understanding the impact of human activities on the ocean and its inhabitants." By providing students with hands-on experience in marine research, programs like the marine semester program can help foster a new generation of scientists who are equipped to address the complex challenges facing our oceans. The marine semester program has been running for several years, but it continues to evolve. This year's program included a new focus on data analysis and visualization, which allowed students to better understand and communicate their research findings. As Kim reflected on his experience, "I learned so much more than I ever could have in a classroom setting. The marine semester program was an incredible opportunity that I will always cherish." Background: The University of New Brunswick's marine semester program is a unique educational experience that allows students to conduct field-based research projects in the marine environment. The program, which runs for three months, provides students with hands-on experience in marine biology and exposes them to the challenges and complexities of conducting research in the ocean. Additional Perspectives: Dr. Brennan emphasized the importance of experiential learning in marine biology education. "By providing students with real-world experiences, we can help them develop the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in this field," he said. Kim's experience in the marine semester program has inspired him to pursue a career in marine research. "I'm grateful for the opportunity to have been part of such an incredible program," Kim said. "It's experiences like these that remind me why I chose to study marine biology in the first place." Current Status and Next Developments: The marine semester program continues to evolve, with a focus on incorporating new technologies and methods into the curriculum. This year's program included a new emphasis on data analysis and visualization, which allowed students to better understand and communicate their research findings. As for Kim, he is now pursuing a career in marine research, inspired by his experiences in the marine semester program. "I'm excited to see where my education takes me," Kim said. *Reporting by Nature.*