Fieldwork Reflections

Guest post by Madison Cammarata ('26).

As the Spring 2024 semester drew to a close, my anticipation soared for the upcoming adventure awaiting me: joining fellow students and Professor Harnik in his Paleo Lab. Stepping into this new experience was exhilarating, unlike anything I had ever encountered. Despite the warnings from Professor Harnik about grueling 12-hour days under the sun, unpredictable boat rides, and the looming threat of seasickness, I approached it all with unwavering determination.

Fieldwork has always been my favorite part of studying Geology. Exploring stunning outcrops and uncovering fossils has consistently fueled my excitement. Naturally, the prospect of having the new experience of fieldwork on a boat added an extra layer of thrill to the experience. However, our journey hit a rocky start—literally. Despite being prepared for choppy waters and turbulent conditions, my downfall came unexpectedly when my seasickness medication made me feel… seasick. Pro tip: always check for potential interactions before taking meds, or risk ending up like me—dizzy and out of commission. Once I resolved this issue, I could fully immerse myself in the work, appreciating the opportunity to observe fascinating oceanic creatures up close.

Alabama was a promising site for our research, particularly in terms of biodiversity and live specimen counts. Discovering the sheer diversity and number of live organisms in each sample astounded me. Among the discoveries, the Nucula proxima, with its stunning shell, stood out as a personal favorite.

Before this expedition, bryozoans seemed a bit boring compared to the intricate beauty of bivalve shells. However, after hours spent studying these tiny creatures under the SEM (Scanning Electron Microscope), their mesmerizing complexities were unveiled. My initial indifference transformed into a newfound fascination with these intricate organisms and their exquisite patterns.

While my academic focus has primarily revolved around rocks and minerals as an environmental geology major, this research experience provided a compelling introduction to paleontology. Professor Harnik’s research’s emphasis on climate change and the hands-on nature of fieldwork left a profound impact on me. I am immensely grateful for the opportunity, as it has reshaped my perspective on the delicate ecosystems thriving at the ocean's depths.