Cell Biology

In this class, students learn about the structure and function of cells, including the organelles and biochemical processes that enable life. Key topics include cellular communication, energy production, and cell division, which are fundamental to understanding how organisms grow, develop, and respond to their environment. This knowledge is crucial for fields like medicine, genetics, and biotechnology, as it provides insights into disease mechanisms, treatment strategies, and the potential for innovations in health and science.

Earth Science

Students explore the Earth’s physical structure, including its geology, atmosphere, oceans, and ecosystems, as well as the processes that shape the planet over time. Topics such as plate tectonics, weather patterns, and natural hazards help explain how Earth’s systems are interconnected. This knowledge is vital for understanding environmental issues, predicting natural disasters, and managing resources sustainably to address global challenges like climate change and conservation.

Elementary Statistics

In this class, we learned how to collect, analyze, interpret, and present data using various statistical methods, including probability, hypothesis testing, and regression analysis. The course emphasizes critical thinking skills to understand patterns, make predictions, and draw valid conclusions from data. This knowledge is vital for decision-making in fields like business, healthcare, social sciences, and research, as it helps individuals make informed, data-driven choices in an increasingly data-dependent world.

Evolution

We learned about the mechanisms of evolutionary change, such as natural selection, genetic drift, and gene flow, and how these processes drive the diversity of life on Earth. The course covers the evidence for evolution, including fossils, genetics, and comparative anatomy, to understand how species adapt and evolve over time. This knowledge is crucial for fields like medicine, agriculture, and conservation, as it helps us address issues like antibiotic resistance, species conservation, and the impact of environmental changes on biodiversity.

Genetics

We learned about the principles of inheritance, the structure and function of DNA, and how genes control traits and influence biological processes. Key topics include Mendelian inheritance, genetic mutations, gene expression, and modern techniques like CRISPR and genomics. This knowledge is essential for advancing medical research, improving agricultural practices, and understanding genetic disorders, offering insights into human health, disease prevention, and personalized medicine.

Foundations of Chemistry II

We built on basic chemistry principles to explore topics like chemical reactions, thermodynamics, kinetics, and equilibrium, as well as the properties of acids, bases, and gases. The course also delves into more advanced concepts such as electrochemistry, organic chemistry, and the behavior of solutions. This knowledge is essential for fields like medicine, engineering, and environmental science, as it provides the foundational understanding needed to solve real-world problems involving chemical processes and innovations.

Ichthyology

In this class, we studied the biology, behavior, and diversity of fish species, focusing on their anatomy, physiology, ecology, and evolutionary history. The course covers topics such as fish classification, habitat preferences, and adaptations to various aquatic environments. This knowledge is important for conservation efforts, sustainable fisheries management, and understanding aquatic ecosystems, as fish play crucial roles in both the environment and global food security.

An example of the creation of a dichotomous key to differentiate between 19 species of fishes collected as specimens:

Oceanography

We explored the physical, chemical, and biological properties of the oceans, as well as the processes that shape marine environments, such as ocean currents, tides, and plate tectonics. The course covers marine ecosystems, coastal dynamics, and the impact of human activities on ocean health. This knowledge is critical for addressing global challenges like climate change, marine pollution, and the conservation of marine biodiversity, which are essential for maintaining healthy oceans and sustaining life on Earth.

An example of the work done in this class:

Career and Professional Development

In this class, we learned essential skills for navigating the job market, including resume writing, interview techniques, networking, and personal branding. The course also emphasizes career planning, goal setting, and building a professional portfolio to enhance long-term career success. This knowledge is crucial for increasing employability, developing a clear career path, and adapting to changing job markets, helping individuals achieve professional growth and job satisfaction.