This intent of this course is to assist you in making the transition from being just a "student" to where you acquire professional skills, attitudes and competencies.  The emphasis is on core botanical activities.  Graduate students from all botanical tracks will benefit from this course.

Course Meeting Times:

Instructors: Bridges and McClatchey

Course Description

The course consists primarily of discussion meetings where we explore a number of topics that are core to being a professional botanist.  We also examine the Department's academic process and how it can be completed in an efficient and satisfying manner.  There are homework exercises that give you experience with key skills, such as digital photography, specimen mounting, and GPS navigation.  You are expected to build a safety kit and know how to work safely under typical field conditions.

A series of presentations is given during the semester so that you get to know the Botany Department faculty better.

Field Trip (Optional): A two-day field trip to Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park (on the Big Island) will provide opportunities to practice some of your field skills, experience field identification of some of Hawai`i's native flora, visit a premier conservation area (Hawai`i's only World Heritage Site), and search out possible research areas.  While this is an optional trip, it is highly suggested.

Prerequisites: Graduate standing.

Usual Offering: Not offered at present