THE LONE GEOLOGIST: EXPERIENCE FROM THE UNIVERSITY OF REDLANDS, SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA

The University of Redlands, a relatively small, private institution, has stand-alone departments in the physical and life sciences, but lacks a geology department. As the sole geologist on campus, I reside in the Environmental Studies Program. I have found that there are several key requirements that allow me to maintain my identity as a geologist while serving my institution. First, I needed to adjust my expectations; I would not teach upper level geology courses or have students conduct research in my area of expertise. Second, I needed to embrace the interdisciplinary nature of geology. That is, I found that there are opportunities to weave geological themes into a variety of courses and senior projects. Lastly, I have developed relationships with regional geologists that give me the opportunity to discuss my area of expertise, attend field trips, and gain access to analytical facilities that are not available at my home institution. Overall, I have found that being the lone geologist can be rewarding, but one must be prepared to teach in all areas of earth science and learn to apply geologic concepts to broader environmental themes.