Biology from the Ocean to Orono

The “From the Ocean to Orono” is part of the School of Biology and Ecology orientation and a research learning experience (RLE) that helps you explore different aspects of biological sciences. All first-year students in Biology, Botany, and Zoology majors participate in the week-before-semester event, which is split evenly between activities on campus in Orono and at the Schoodic Institute, part of Acadia National Park, located on the Maine coast. Students then continue their RLE in the fall semester ELH 117 course, where they will conduct research with an SBE faculty member throughout the semester. This course also introduces you to your major and lets you know about important campus resources available to support you.

RLE students go down to Schoodic beach

Begin your path in biology, botany, and ecology through engaging in and learning about the world around you during “Biology from Ocean to Orono”

Brian McGill leads outdoor research activity

research workshops

Part of Bridge Week, Professor of Ornithology, Brian Olsen leads a team of students on a field expedition down the Penbscot River. Packraft Maine guide Alejandro Strong provided rafting instruction and rafts for the expedition. Part of Bridge Week, Professor of Ornithology, Brian Olsen leads a team of students on a field expedition down the Penbscot River. Packraft Maine guide Alejandro Strong provided rafting instruction and rafts for the expedition.

field trips

Students participate in RLE research activity

social events

Biology from Ocean to Orono Experience

During SBE’s “From the Ocean to Orono” experience, you will:

  • Form friendships that will last through your whole time at UMaine
  • Get to know some SBE faculty before stepping foot into a classroom
  • Learn how to succeed in your first semester at UMaine
  • Explore campus and the research opportunities found in our laboratories and field sites
  • Begin your biological training with a two-night trip to the Schoodic Peninsula of Acadia National Park

See this year’s research activities

Students inspect beehive
Phil Fanning leads student on research activity
Beehive
Student participating in Maine Pollinators RLE

Maine Pollinators

Dr. Philip Fanning leads students on an outdoor activity to learn more about Maine’s pollinators.

Fungal foray

Students look and collect fungi on campus led by Dr. Seanna Annis.

Seanna Annis led students on RLE activity
Seanna Annis discusses fungi with student
Student inspects plant sample
Students on RLE research activity

Stream Ecology

Drs. Brian Olsen and Hamish Greig lead students on a stream ecology research activity.

Tree ID walk

Dr. Brian McGill leads students on a tree ID hike at Schoodic.

Measuring snail populations

Dr. Amanda Klemmer leads students down to the interdial to count snails in rockweed using quadrants.

Birds fly overhead at Schoodic

MOVE-IN DAY IS SUNDAY, AUGUST 24

SBE Majors (Biology, Botany, and Zoology) move onto campus on Sunday, August 24th, and participate in a week of activities prior to the start of the regular semester.

Questions?

Email um.biology@maine.edu