Student Field Experiences Endowment

Many students struggle with the added expense of field trips, from the extremely popular 660 Summer Field Camp for undergraduates and its parallel track in hydrogeology to the range of field experiences pursued by graduate students. Geology programs across the country are cutting back on—or cutting out entirely—their annual field courses.

This “geological fundraising scale” (top right) indicates how far we’ve come from the start of the Cambrian. Won’t you help us reach the Quaternary?

To contribute:

You can mail a check to the Jackson School of Geosciences or use your credit card to give or pledge online. More details can be found on the JSG Support Web.

Why give?

"Much, if not all, of what I learned about geology over my past three years as a student at UT was integrated into the fantastic variety of formations, outcrops, folds, faults, and geologic features that Dr. Cloos showed us. It's experiences like this one that remind me how fortunate I am to be a part of an institution like UT and a community like the Jackson School.... I am amazed at the generosity of the Jackson School in financing this entire expedition." —James Pape, undergraduate in geology who took part in a JSG-funded field trip to California led by Prof. Mark Cloos

“If I had not received the scholarship for 660, finding the money for the following semester would have been really tough. It took such a load off. I know many students like myself who are paying for college out of pocket and every little bit you save is worth it, but to save a big chunk like this is a serious boon.” - Wesley Schumacher, undergraduate in geology who participated in 660 Summer Field Camp in 2006

“The scholarship allowed me to go on 660 without moving further into debt paying for college. . . . The experience gained from being in the field like that is priceless. The scholarship really helped initially convince me that the course was worth it, and in retrospect, I am so glad I went. . . . I would really like to extend my sincere appreciation to the alumni that have established the Geology Foundation. You have made my college experience truly worthwhile. Thank you.” – Christian Dohse, undergraduate in geology who participated in 660 Summer Field Camp in 2006

“I was very worried at the beginning, about taking on the responsibility of rent, bills and field camps while not having a job. As an undergraduate, I was always very busy, and my part-time job earned barely enough to cover my utilities and cable let alone rent and tuition! . . . At the time, I considered trying to switch majors within the department to avoid field camp and get a job - not something I wanted to do by any means, but felt was my only option. The scholarship I was awarded covered my tuition, leaving me with only the smaller bill of supplies.” – Taylor Bartholomew, graduate student in geology who participated in 660 Summer Field Camp in 2006

Why do students love Jackson School field experiences?

“Field Camp was probably the most significant growing experience in my life and education and there is probably not a day that goes by where I don't think or talk about it.” – Taylor Bartholomew, graduate student in geology who participated in 660 Summer Field Camp in 2006

“I think 660 forced me to ‘grow-up’ a little bit and find confidence in myself. It also gave me the chance to apply geologic concepts I'd been studying for years in the real world. Without it, I'd feel less aware of what geology really entails, and would definitely be less knowledgeable.” - Rebecca Comeaux, 2007 graduate in geology who participated in 660 Summer Field Camp in 2006

“Had there not been a 660 field course, I feel I would not be a true geologist. Classical geology has had a very heavy field component, and in order to become a well rounded geologist, which I assume are both the most successful and innovative thinkers, field experience is critical. 660 establishes those field skills and enables the students to understand classical geology, and then how to apply it into modern geology. When sitting in front of a computer screen, it becomes easy to lose track of what the actual rock even looks like. 660 embeds this image into your mind for life and doesn’t let you forget what those computer images really represent.” – Christian Dohse, undergraduate in geology who participated in 660 Summer Field Camp in 2006

“I like being outdoors and I love the field aspect of geology. That is where geology lives! I think it's absolutely essential that every geologist get out and see the rocks. Ours is not a laboratory science. . . . I don't know how any geology student could consider themselves well rounded in their studies if they didn't have any field training.” - Wesley Schumacher, undergraduate in geology who participated in 660 Summer Field Camp in 2006

“After field camp, I felt skilled enough to pursue geology as a career, but more importantly, I desired to learn more and wanted to pursue a master’s degree in geology to refine my skills and mature my intelligence. Field camp was the experience in which I grew up the most in my life - I learned how to handle my own problems; I learned the significance of team work and cooperation in geology; I learned patience for others and the different ways in which they approached problems, which only provided me more ways to approach mine; and most importantly, I learned what being a geologist was all about and gained a best friend.” – Taylor Bartholomew, graduate student in geology who participated in 660 Summer Field Camp in 2006

For more information about the Jackson School contact J.B. Bird at jbird@jsg.utexas.edu, 512-232-9623.