LSSU Tall Ships program sets sail

Some Lake Superior State University students are taking advantage of an unusual classroom this summer--on the decks of a Great Lakes schooner.

Two classes, Native Cultures of North America and Oceanography, both are taking place aboard the 77-foot schooner Inland Seas, a tall ship sailing on northern Lake Michigan and the Straits of Mackinac this summer. Educators also get the chance for a tall ship classroom experience with a continuing education credit in the Native Cultures class.

It's the second year LSSU has offered such a program, and space is limited to nine students, says Barbara Evans, a professor and coordinator of the program. Registration is still open for the classes, which begin June 20 and last until July 29 in on-shore classrooms. The Native Cultures class will be aboard the Inland Seas July 18-21, and the Oceanography students will set sail August 1-5.

"On last year's trip, professor Sally Childs and I realized that although we were on Lake Michigan within 100 miles of the LSSU campus, we felt like we were a world away," says Evans, an LSSU biology professor. "Another class participant told us he felt this was the most amazing classroom ever. The Inland Seas crew was very professional and able to involve the students in all aspects of the sailing experience."

The continuing education course cost is $1,000 per person, which includes meals. The for-credit courses fall under regular tuition guidelines, plus special course fees. Registration can be done through the LSSU Admissions office or online.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Barbara Evans, Lake Superior State University