Students Embark on an Unforgettable Educational Journey to the Galápagos

From January 2–13, a group from Briar Cliff University, including two students, three guests, and faculty member Dr. Brian Hazlett, embarked on an extraordinary educational expedition to the Galápagos Islands. This trip, an integral part of a for-credit course, provided students with hands-on learning experiences, allowing them to explore biodiversity in one of the most unique ecosystems on the planet. 

Dr. Hazlett, who has now led six student trips to the Galápagos, described the journey as exceeding expectations—even for someone who has visited the islands multiple times. "We saw parts of the islands I had never explored before, and the snorkeling experiences were simply spectacular," he shared. 

The group encountered numerous endemic species, swam with hammerhead sharks at Kicker Rock, and snorkeled alongside penguins in the chilly equatorial waters. Other unforgettable experiences included sightings of seahorses among mangrove roots and a rare glimpse of the elusive olinguito while at the Bellavista Cloud Forest Reserve on the Mainland.     

Student Perspectives 

Steven Whiting, an Environmental Science major, reflected on the significance of the trip in shaping his career aspirations in wildlife conservation.

"It was the best trip I have ever been on, and I am grateful to everyone that made it possible. It is the closest to untouched wilderness that I have ever experienced," Steven said. He was particularly struck by the geological and ecological diversity of the islands, which are relatively young in terms of geological time. Among his favorite moments was snorkeling with sharks, sea turtles, rays, penguins, and sea lions. 

Kaylin Bandel, a Biology major studying to become a high school biology teacher, found the trip deeply impactful in expanding her understanding of both biology and cultural perspectives. 

"I had learned about the biodiversity of the Galápagos in my biology classes for years, but seeing it in person changed everything. Each location was incredibly unique," Kaylin shared. "Finally seeing what Charles Darwin observed and understanding the foundation of evolution by natural selection firsthand was a highlight of the trip." 

Kaylin also described the experience as "life-changing," with each day bringing a new adventure—whether it was spotting Darwin’s finches and blue-footed boobies, hiking through breathtaking landscapes, or encountering giant tortoises and marine iguanas. She expressed deep appreciation for the kindness and knowledge shared by the tour guides, naturalists, and locals they met along the way. 

A Transformational Experience 

Beyond its academic significance, this trip reinforced the importance of experiential learning, immersing students in the raw beauty and complexity of nature. Dr. Hazlett and the students returned with a deeper appreciation for conservation and global biodiversity. Their journey serves as an inspiration for future students to embrace opportunities to explore, learn, and connect with the world beyond the classroom. 

As Kaylin eloquently put it, "Life is short, and the world is wide—take the chance".