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**USC Students Dive Deep into Marine Biology with Hands-On Catalina Island Program**

**Catalina Island, CA** – Ditching the typical post-finals relaxation, a group of University of Southern California (USC) students spent their Maymester immersed in the wonders of marine biology on Catalina Island. The four-week program, hosted by the Wrigley Institute for Environmental and Sustainability (WEIS), provided 37 undergraduates with an unparalleled opportunity to learn about oceanography and marine science through hands-on research in one of Southern California’s most vibrant coastal ecosystems.

Students participated in courses ranging from Methods in Marine Biology, led by USC Sea Grant Director Dr. Karla Heidelberg, to Coastal Zone Sustainability. The program emphasized practical skills, with students gaining access to cutting-edge equipment and ship time to collect data both in the field and in the lab. The Wrigley Marine Science Center, located on the island, offers a unique environment to be close to areas heavily affected by human activity adjacent to the Los Angeles region.

“The power of being on a hands-on island is that students are fully immersed in the environment they are learning about – they see it, touch it, smell it, every single day,” shares Dr. Noelle Held, USC Biology Professor.

Beyond academics, students also enjoyed recreational activities like diving, snorkeling, hiking, and kayaking. The immersive experience is designed to foster critical thinking, teamwork, and scientific communication.

USC Sea Grant is a key collaborator in the Maymester program. “This hands-on experience prepares students not only for graduate education but also for roles in environmental consulting, marine resource management, conservation, and scientific research, all priority areas identified by USC Sea Grant,” explains Dr. Heidelberg. The program aligns with Sea Grant’s workforce development goals, equipping students with the practical, career-relevant training needed to address current and future coastal challenges.

The Maymester program is one of USC’s most sought-after opportunities, offering a unique blend of rigorous academics and a motivating environment that can inspire future career paths. Alice Yin, a marine biology student, said the course “solidified my passion for the field.” USC Dornsife chemistry major Gabriel Crothall added, “there are truly no limits to what you can do in this program – from sampling off boats to hands-on lab work… made this one of the most unique and unforgettable experiences!”

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