Here is a list of things that I could not go without on a geology field-trip:
- Compass-clino: basically a compass (NWSE) with a swinging arrow that lets you measure how much the rocks are dipping. But really we all carry it for the small mirror inside, you know so the boys can check whether their lipstick has smudged or not
- Topographic map: to record which rocks are where and to practice colouring inside the lines when you get back home
- Mapping board: to lean the map on in the field and bat away midges or annoying classmates who get all the answers right
- GPS: because orienteering is for year 9 P.E
- Mapping pen: with a tiny 0.18 mm nib allowing you to fit as much information on your map as possible but of course this makes it extremely delicate and easy to break
- Raincoat, fleece, gloves and silly hat: especially in the UK
- Sun hat and sun cream: ok these are only for overseas!
- Hammer: for chipping off bits of nice rock that you want to take home with you to add to your slowly accreting rock collection
- Walking boots: to protect your feet from nasty sharp rocks
- Good rucksack with hydration sack: the hydration sack is basically a water-filled bag with a straw so it requires no effort to drink enough water throughout the day
- First Aid kit: which I have thankfully never used
- Waterproof notebook: because some fool always drops his in a puddle
- Hand lens: to magnify the rocks/crystals/fingernails/classmates’ eyes (seriously you should try that it’s amazing)
- Lunch: Hell hath seen no fury like a woman without lunch on a geological field trip
Anything I’ve missed? Type your reply in the comments below!
TTFN
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Hi Eleri, I love reading your blog it’s hilarious! I’m trying to decide which uni to firm and insure at the minute and I wondered if you could help answer some of my questions?
Are the staff at the uni quite supportive and approachable? Like do you feel you could ask them for help if you need to?
Also, are there many opportunities do be involved in internships or work experience placements or anything like that which will help with employability?
Do graduates that you know of find it easy to get jobs in geological fields after graduating and have you been given any help or direction with what to do after uni?
Sorry for all the questions and long post but thanks!!!
No problem! Sorry it’s taken me a while to get back to you.
The staff: very friendly and extremely approachable. I needed a lecturer to write a second review on my new passport form once and I knocked on one lecturer’s door (not having emailed him about this) not only did he agree to sign it he dropped everything and filled it out right then and there! The lecturers also have a passion for teaching not just Geology.
Internships: we have a great career’s officer who is always posting about work placements etc on our Geology Facebook group page. They also email with important ones. We have two Geology specific career’s days each year (either on or off campus transport provided) which I find is a good opportunity to meet industrial bigwigs 🙂
After uni: there are always people to talk to about what to do after uni. They also post about graduate jobs on the Facebook group and can point you out to companies looking for graduates too. As long as you don’t mind a bit of travelling and have got good degree you shouldn’t find it too hard to get a geological job!
Feel free to ask any more questions and good luck with making your choices 🙂