May Term class teaches features of Appalachia, value of getting outside

As many have spent the majority of their time closed up in their homes during the COVID-19 pandemic, a group of Roanoke students got out into the woods and mountains around them.

As part of Steve Powers’ Adventure in Nature May Term class, Powers sent students into the outdoors, where they were expected to take photos of 10 different native organisms. The students were then tasked with identifying the organisms.

Though the class is centered on the Appalachian outdoors, students are taking the class remotely from their hometowns. Lynn Kreppert ‘22, who is home in Missouri, said the experience has been enlightening.

A photo of a Dekay's brown snake near Baltimore, taken by Emily Winstead '21.

“I really enjoyed this class, because it taught me more about the land that I've fallen in love with ever since I started at Roanoke College,” Kreppert said. “Since I'm not from Appalachia to begin with, this assignment also helped me to explore my own hometown and the wildlife that lies within. I'm so glad I could still enjoy this class, even from home.”

The assignment also required students to get outside, which experts have said is an excellent way to stay both mentally and physically healthy during this pandemic. Chuckie Tenbush ‘21 said he enjoyed the way the project got him out of his house.

Parker Moody ‘22 concurred, saying taking photos of birds and plants was a healthy break from binge-watching.

“I really enjoyed the project because it forced me to go outside and look at nature and hike within state regulations instead of staying inside watching Netflix all day,” Moody said.

A photo of a crawfish near the Roanoke River, taken by Chloe Dennis ‘21.

Other assignments in the class include reporting on a trail they have visited or would like to visit and providing some details about that trail, examining a segment of stream they would like to paddle or have paddled, identifying a threat to some natural feature of Appalachia and providing details about that threat. 

The students are also tasked with putting together a plan for a future trip, identifying travel arrangements, lodging or camping planning, food plans, resources necessary, and budget for the trip. Students will also identify a feature of Appalachia — either a species or group of organisms, locality or historical event, for example — and write a paper or put together a poster explaining details of that feature.

On paper, the course aims to educate students on the natural features of Appalachia. Moody said the course has also emphasized the value of unplugging every once in a while.

“One of the biggest things I’ve learned from this class is to appreciate the outdoors more and take the time to explore and look beyond my phone screen,” Moody said.