This article covers a trip taken by students from Grand Rapids Community College (GRCC) to participate in the University of Michigan’s Detroit River Schooner Program. Here are the key points:
Event Overview:
- Date & Purpose: On September 26, a group from GRCC’s English Department took students to Detroit for a hands-on educational experience aboard the tall ship Alliance.
- Focus Areas: The program aims to educate students about the Detroit River’s history, wildlife, water quality, and the science behind river navigation.
Insights from Faculty:
- Lynn Prince, a Professor of English at GRCC, emphasized the importance of the trip for students, particularly for those unable to travel abroad, promoting continued engagement based on student feedback.
- Muhammad also shared that the trip provided deeper insights into the city and its history.
Activities on the Ship:
- Students engaged in scientific practices, measuring water clarity, temperature, and collecting samples.
- They participated in hoisting sails and attended lectures on various topics:
- Marquise Griffin discussed the river’s cultural significance, particularly for the Black community during the Underground Railroad era.
- Michelle Bradley covered environmental concerns and the impact of human activity on river wildlife.
- Further discussions included microbial life in the water, the physics of maritime navigation, and indigenous history.
Student Experiences:
- Students expressed enthusiasm for participating in a unique educational setting.
- Estefania Castelo-Urbina highlighted stepping out of her comfort zone and engaging with the event, while Mariah Vasquez appreciated the calming experience of being on the water.
Conclusion:
The trip effectively combined elements of science, culture, and environmental responsibility, offering students an immersive experience that highlighted both historical and contemporary issues associated with the Detroit River. Students and faculty alike deemed the experience valuable for understanding not just natural sciences, but also social and civic contexts.
