On Dec. 4, UHS Marine Science students visited the Birch Aquarium at the Scripps Institute for their first field trip of the year. While this trip marked the first-ever visit to the Birch Aquarium, the goal was the same as past visits to the Aquarium of the Pacific: to learn about Marine Science in a hands-on environment outside of the classroom. 

Every year, the UHS Marine Science classes organize at least two field trips, with the next field trip this year being whale watching in Newport Beach. Due to the collaboration of Marine Science teachers Mrs. Ruby-Ann Lopez and Mr. David Knight and the chaperones who helped during the event, the field trip was a success. 

“I like the Birch [Aquarium] for what they had to offer,” Knight said. “It was smaller and less crowded. Their program was also well run and informative.”

During the field trip, students dissected the stomach of a longnose lancetfish and examined its contents. They also met with researchers at the Scripps Institute and learned about their research. This experience gave students a preview of what a profession in Marine Science could look like. 

These field trips aim to balance the line between academics and enjoyment with a more interactive approach. Students were given time to explore the aquarium and see the variety of marine life. 

“The highlight of the field trip for me was seeing all of the jellyfish, especially the ones that glow in the dark,” junior Karina Miao said. “I think being able to observe the animals as well as having the opportunity to speak with the researchers at the Scripps Institute made the experience really enjoyable.” 

For many students, field trips are a welcome change of scenery from daily school life. 

“I appreciated being able to apply knowledge that I got from lessons in class to the real world,” junior Amy Hu said. “I also appreciated getting to leave the classroom in general since there are not as many opportunities to do so in high school classes.” 

Once students leave elementary school, the chances to go on a field trip are little to none since not as many opportunities are offered. There are also concerns about how to fund the transportation, organize the activities and find the chaperones to take care of such a large group of students. 

“So few students ever get to go on a field trip in high school; for some, the last field they went on was to a pumpkin patch in elementary school,” Knight said. “Field trips provide an opportunity to have fun with your friends and to learn something.” 

Fortunately, the Marine Science teachers are willing to dedicate time to providing students with these rare opportunities. Field trips like this visit to the Birch Aquarium supply enriching opportunities for learning in a fun and memorable way.