Earth Explorers, a student club at Yuba College, gives students the opportunity to go places and learn about what is happening in nature. The club has allowed students to participate in camping trips, rock hunting exhibitions, and whitewater rafting. “It was a great learning experience and it taught me just how much effort and precision it takes to create fine jewelry,” says student Stephen F. Ohnsat, referring to the club’s rock hunting trip. “It inspired a new appreciation for the craft.”
The club was organized last year by an active group of students who had participated on a two-day class trip to Yosemite National Park offered by geology professor Betsy Julian. The one-unit class gave fifteen students the unique opportunity to study geology from a perspective outside the classroom.
“You’re going to remember it so much longer if you have been there and you have done it,” says club adviser Betsy Julian. “You’re never going to look at anything the same once you have seen it, smelled it, and felt it, opposed to sitting in a chair half-asleep.”
Earth Explorers was started after the students realized that they could be doing more to promote nature in the community. “It all started out of the Yosemite experience,” says Julian. “The students started it and their enthusiasm has kept it going.”
There is also a conservation aspect to the club. “We’re working with the school on energy conservation,” says Julian. “We’re making sure most classrooms will have a recycle container.” Earth Explorers is also helping out in the community. “In two weeks, the club will participate in a program to help the Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts get their geology badges.”
The club consists of twelve core students who participate at group functions and events. However, club adviser Betsy Julian says that about forty students have been affected by the club one way or another. “Part of my goal is to get people from Yuba College and Marysville to appreciate our area,” says Julian, “for people to realize what the opportunities are around here.”
People who enjoy the outdoors are encouraged to participate, and it is never too late to sign up. “We’re an inclusive organization,” says Julian. “This is meant to provide an opportunity to students.” Earth Explorers meet twice a month on every second and fourth Thursday at noon in Room 818.
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