First Year Teacher brings students to Monterey Bay Aquarium

Dr. Karen Walters took her third period zoology class to the Monterey Bay Aquarium, Nov 20. There, the student?s explored marine life and gathered information for their upcoming research papers. They also shopped for souvenirs and enjoyed a seaside dinner afterwards.

Walters, zoology teacher and former professor at Davis University, believes the trip provided her students with the opportunity to find a deeper appreciation for the world around them as well as have meaningful hands-on interactions with the animals.

“Zoology is the study of animals and the best way to study them is to see, feel, and touch them,” Walters said. “Seeing the living animals in their natural (even aquarium) environment helps us to learn about the real creature much more than just looking at movies or textbooks.”

The class of 11 students and three chaperons took to the road at 7 a.m. and didn’t return until after 7 p.m. that night. Upon reaching the coast, the students entered the aquarium and received an exclusive introduction by the aquarium staff. After which they split into groups and explored the vibrant aquatic displays while searching for useful information for their worksheets and research projects.

Senior Zoology student John Agao’s favorite exhibit was the main tank with the large fish. He learned that the ocean is very diverse and populated with thousands of different species.

“My favorite exhibit was the ginormous tank,” Agao said. “It had millions of gallons of water with the largest fish in the aquarium; I really liked it. I learned that there?s lots of different species of fish even though they may look similar, they are all distinct from each other.”

The aquarium group saw everything from octopus to florescent jelly fish. At the touch pools, students had the opportunity to feel starfish, crabs and other animals that they had only seen before. They also witnessed the feeding sessions of several animals, including cuddle fish and sharks. Some also watched short films in the aquariums theater.

Sophomore Zoology student Courtney Messer enjoyed the jelly fish exhibit and walked away with interesting information on the animals she observed.

“I?m doing my project on seahorses, but my favorite exhibit in the aquarium was the jellyfish section,” Messer said. “Outside of the aquarium I enjoyed the food. I didn?t really have seafood; I had an hamburger, but it was still good.”
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After experiencing the grandeur of marine life in the aquarium the students raided the gift shop, took a quick group picture and departed. They then met again at a small seaside restaurant called Abolonetti, which sold a wide range of food including clam chowder, hamburgers and pastas. After everyone’s needs were met, the group set sail for Fresno.

Walter says the highlight of the aquarium for her was seeing the elusive Giant Octopus move in the open water and display its suction cups for the audience. She also enjoyed the unity of the class throughout the whole trip.

“My favorite parts were the Giant Pacific Octopus showing off for us and getting to have a meal together,” Walters said. “The clam chowder was also great. In addition to the animals, I really appreciated the opportunity to be together as a class outside of class.”

At approximately 7:30 p.m. the weary travelers returned back to the FC parking lot and ended their long day. Now equipped with information, the students are prepared for their research papers with lots of pictures and notes.

For more information on the Monetary aquarium be sure to see the Monterey Bay Aquarium website.

For more features, read the Nov. 21 article, San Joaquin Parkway encourages community ownership (VIDEO).

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