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From Microplastics to Mangroves: My Journey Through Environmental Service
Summary
Researchers describe a community-engaged service-learning course in which students conducted microplastics fieldwork, participated in mangrove restoration, and contributed to oyster reef projects, demonstrating how environmental service activities develop scientific research and communication skills.
This course’s learning goal was to provide real-world learning experiences that enhance scientific research and communication skills through hands-on, community-based projects. Throughout the semester, I participated in a variety of environmental service-learning activities, including a microplastics project, mangrove tree gardening, and creation of cement structures for use in oyster reef restoration. These experiences allowed me to engage directly with environmental science in a meaningful way. In addition to the course objectives, I set personal learning goals to deepen my understanding of the connection between science and community impact. I aimed to improve my confidence in applying scientific methods outside the classroom, to develop stronger collaboration and problem-solving skills, and to better understand how small-scale conservation efforts contribute to larger environmental solutions. This course has presented me opportunities and has opened my eyes to new paths of environmental stewardship that I was not aware of previously.
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