Geology major develops field mapping skills through summer field camp with OSU

During the summer before her senior year at The College of Wooster, Lauren Segura ’26 attended a Summer Field Camp with the School of Earth Sciences at The Ohio State University. Segura is majoring in geology and pursuing a sustainability pathway. Through an APEX Fellowship, Segura gained valuable experience in field mapping across Utah. She learned how to use different field tools and considered historical and environmental interpretations of the sites she visited. Her experience provided Segura with integral skills related to field work, as she plans to attend a graduate school program that implements this geological field of study. 

 “This experience has validated what is next for me. I plan to apply to graduate programs with heavy field work components.” 

—Lauren Segura ’26 

FINDING OPPORTUNITIES 

Segura: This opportunity was recommended to me by my former advisor, Dr. Shelley Judge. I plan to go to graduate school after finishing my undergraduate degree, and I want field work to be a large component of it. For most field-based programs, this type of experience is a requirement. 

LESSONS LEARNED 

Segura: I loved the challenge of field mapping. We spent two to four days at various field locations struggling to understand the landscape around us. We typically only began to understand it within the last few hours at a site, and it made all the struggle worth it. Understanding a problem after days of not knowing was very rewarding and my favorite part of the experience. 

GUIDANCE FOR GROWTH 

Segura: Elizabeth Schiltz, professor of philosophy, was very understanding throughout my experience. I often had schedule changes and very long days in the field that made it difficult for me to meet certain APEX fellowship deadlines. However, communication with her was very helpful and allowed me to remain focused on my summer experience without sacrificing my APEX assignments. 

Segura gains hands-on field mapping experience in Utah.

CARRYING IT FORWARD 

Segura: Some career specific skills include field mapping, interpretation of geologic histories and depositional environments, use of field tools such as a Brunton compass, Jacob’s Staff, and field tablet, and an understanding of field safety. I also practiced communication, teamwork, and critical thinking skills. 

WHAT’S NEXT 

Segura: This experience has validated what is next for me. I plan to apply to graduate programs with heavy field work components. 

Featured image: Lauren Segura ’26, photo provided by subject.

Posted in Experiential Learning, Showcase Stories 2025 on August 6, 2025.