When class meets in the Everglades

Winter session classes offer UB students a chance to get ahead or stay on track with their studies or pursue a special interest.

For the nine students in EVS 493, The Ecology of Unique Environments, it offered an opportunity to push themselves out of fheir comfort zones and learn about a completely different world: the Florida Everglades.

The students, led by instructor Sandy Geffner, spent a week camping and exploring the national park. They learned about the more than 200 plant and animal species that call the park home. They spent their days — and nights — hiking, walking through the swamp, snorkling and canoeing. For many, it was an “otherworldly” experience.

University Communications photographer Meredith Forrest Kulwicki was there with the students to document it all. Take a look at what students say was a memorable — even surreal for some — experience.