USI students transform learning through immersive field course in Yellowstone and the Black Hills

Students in the Geology, Physics, and Environmental Science Department recently returned from a life-changing field course that took them from Indiana to the rugged landscapes of the Black Hills and Yellowstone Plateau. Led by faculty members Dr. Paul Doss, Professor Emeritus of Geology, Dr. Tony Maria, Professor of Geology, and Dr. Carrie Wright, Instructor in Geology, the class combined hands-on learning with unforgettable experiences in some of the nation’s most iconic public lands. 

Over the course of the trip, students camped primitively in bear country, hiked off-trail to 50-million-year-old petrified trees preserved in volcanic sediments and examined everything from 2.7-billion-year-old rocks to those forming today. The group also explored prehistoric and modern hydrothermal explosion sites and discussed critical resource management topics, including forests, fish, wildlife and land use. 

“These field excursions give our students the rare opportunity to step out of the classroom and directly apply what they’ve studied to real-world environments,” said Doss. “It’s not just about geology, it’s about experiencing the intersection of science, history and stewardship of our public lands.” 

In addition to geological studies, students learned about the cultural significance of the lands they visited, observing evidence of Indigenous peoples who inhabited these areas long before European settlement. The course also emphasized teamwork and problem-solving as students adapted to the challenges of long-distance travel, primitive camping and unpredictable field conditions. 

What began as a mix of first-year students and seniors, Environmental Science and Geology majors, and both seasoned adventurers and first-time campers, ended as a cohesive group of colleagues and friends. The immersive journey deepened their understanding of Earth’s processes and inspired a greater commitment to environmental stewardship. 

For more information about USI’s Geology, Physics and Environmental Science programs and its field-based learning opportunities, visit USI.edu/science.