The science of learning knows no bounds

From exploring limestone caves and mangroves to swimming in the stunning turquoise waters, a group of Cushing participants had the trip of a lifetime in Bermuda last fall. 

The group, composed of five students, three adult participants and five staff members serving as chaperones, spent a week of learning and fun at the Bermuda Institute of Ocean Science (BIOS).

BIOS serves as the Atlantic research headquarters to Arizona State University’s School of Oceans Futures. The research work is focused on experiential learning opportunities that study the current and future state of the ocean and the challenges our environments experience due to human activities.

The Cushing participants stayed in the student dormitories, studied in the labs, went out on research vessels, hiked, visited parks, museums, the aquarium and zoo, enjoyed local food and shopping and more. 

“I learned about science, mostly coral and fish,” said student Cate Saulnier. “I loved climbing up the huge rocks, and I also loved going out to dinner and going to the aquarium.”

“I loved looking through the microscopes and researching the jellyfish and coral reefs,” said adult participant Michael Jaxtimer-Barry. “We learned coral reefs can live for a very, very long time under water.” 

Student Vinny Johnson also enjoyed looking at pieces of coral under a microscope.

“We learned how they take care of their environment and about the coral reefs and how new or old they are,” said Johnson. “I really liked the water, and the cave was a really cool experience. Also, the food was amazing.”

“I can’t say enough about the BIOS experience,” said Cushing President and CEO Michelle Markowitz. “They tailored activities based on students’ comfort levels and sensory needs. It was so meaningful for them to do things like cave swimming or learning about being more responsible with our environment.” 

Markowitz said the experience was also a lesson in independence and adaptability.

“For some, it was their first travel experience away from their families,” she said. “It really pushed them out of their comfort zones, going out to dinner and ordering on their own and adapting to new schedules, new experiences and new people. It’s exciting to provide them with opportunities for social and emotional growth. We’re working on these things every day, but it really put those skills to the test.” 

“I was a little nervous at first,” said Jaxtimer-Barry, as it was his first trip to Bermuda and his first time traveling without his family. “But it felt really nice, and I liked everyone. I got to make a new friend, my roommate, and I want to start traveling by myself now.”

“Traveling to another country and coming together as a group — with a lot of Cushing pride —was really special,” said Dave Babcock, community integration coordinator for adult services. “We went around the room talking about our highlights and one of the participants put it best when she said ‘meeting all of you.’ It was just an amazing group.”

Plans for a second trip to Bermuda are already underway, and Markowitz expects it will happen in late September. Funding will come from “fund-a-need” donations at the annual Springtime gala.