Article and Photo Contributor, Dr. Rion Taylor
In August 2024, Dr. Rion Taylor, professor of biology, and students from the Department of Natural, Health, and Mathematical Sciences traveled nearly 9,000 miles to southwest Africa for the new course of field studies in Africa of the MNU. The course is offered in collaboration with Olivet Nazarene University (UNO). In partnership with UNO's Professor Nick Troendle, 14 undergraduate students from the two universities took a close look at African wildlife and ecology.
The group's expedition began at Victoria Falls, one of the largest waterfalls in the world. It is also a biodiversity hotspot with many species found nowhere else. The adventure continued with safari-style visits to several diverse ecosystems ranging from wetlands to savannah to desert. The course culminated with a trip to a local game reserve where students learned about conservation and conducted original research projects.
According to Dr. Taylor, learning in this incredible part of the world with an amazing group of students was one of the highlights of the trip. A particularly memorable experience was a unique close encounter with a mother elephant and her calf. Taylor said the group will never forget the herd of rhinos that approached their trucks. Getting to know the amazing local guides who accompanied the team was also a highlight. A guide served as a guide for the BBC documentary series “Planet Earth”.
“One of my best experiences was helping feed the rhinos,” said Nick Allen, a kinesiology specialist. “I was so close I could have run over and hit one of them if I had the courage. But I got nervous when our guide told me, “Just keep your eyes on him (the rhino) to know when you should run.” »
Biology major Hailee Thompson has found new connections. “My favorite part was talking to all the new people,” she said. “People who share the same passion for biology and conservation. It was so cool. We are immediate friends.
Interspersed with these experiences, the group enjoyed local food, evening campfires, and a thrilling ride through the desert dunes. Some members of the expedition group even decided to go bungee jumping or skydiving.
The group ended each day recounting lessons learned, marveling at God's creation, observing the stars, and singing songs of praise.
“We would gather in the evening to share ‘praise and prayers,’ which was nice because it showed us all a different side of each other,” said Katie Sinclair, a biology major at MNU. Dr Taylor added: “It was particularly impactful when the guides joined us for our evening sessions. Seeing people of all ages and from very different places worshiping together was very moving.
African Field Studies (BIOL 3803) seeks to connect the academic and spiritual aspects of scientific discovery. It is offered during the summer of even years and groups spend 14 days in Africa. To help sponsor a student for the next offering of this course, please contact Dr. Rion Taylor at rgtaylor@mnu.edu.
Enjoy more photos of the African adventure at MNU's Flickr album.
