MSU Students Explore the Galápagos Islands
For spring break this year, some Morehead State University students leveled up their research skills.
In keeping with its mission of giving graduates a competitive edge, seven students explored the Pacific islands of Ecuador as part of an Education Abroad opportunity.
Activities included hiking Volcán Wolf, a 5,610-foot-high volcano that is the highest point in the Galápagos, scuba diving, visiting the Charles Darwin Nature Center, and exploring lava tubes.
They also studied under Biology & Chemistry Chair and Professor Dr. Charles Lydeard for his Natural History and Evolution of Galápagos Fauna class.
“It’s one thing to learn about the natural history and evolution of the Galápagos fauna in the classroom,” Lydeard said. “But to develop your critical thinking skills by actually going to the islands and seeing the iconic creatures on the islands that Charles Darwin wrote about in ‘The Voyage of the Beagle’ and later formulated his views of ‘transmutation’ or evolution was something students, faculty and I will never forget.”
Back home, students presented their findings to classmates and Lydeard, sharing their insights from hands-on experience.
"This study abroad trip was one of the most exciting, eye-opening experiences of my life,” said Jack McFarland, a junior from Louisville majoring in veterinary science. “It was incredible being able to observe such an abundance of native animals in possibly the most beautiful place I have ever been in my life."
Each academic year, MSU offers various faculty-led Education Abroad courses. Up next is a trip to Stockholm-Helsinki and Prague-Munich during spring break, March 13-23, 2025. These opportunities are offered through MSU’s Level UP.
Level UP: Experience Your Future is a unique program that builds in-demand skills, including teamwork, professionalism, critical thinking, oral communication, and written communication through service learning, internships, education abroad, and undergraduate research.
To learn more about the program, contact Dr. Jason M. Adkins, Education Abroad Coordinator, at jm.adkins@moreheadstate.edu or 606-783-2044.
