NW Missouri Times

Northwest Missouri State University students recently took a field trip to study geological formations and potential career paths. On December 4, fourteen students from geology, geography, and biology programs visited the Paragon Star Sports Complex in Lee's Summit. They were accompanied by geology faculty members Dr. Onema Adojoh and Nathan Limbaugh.

The sports complex provided an opportunity for students to examine slope stability and geomorphic landscapes, particularly focusing on the limestone and shale formations present in the area. Dr. Adojoh explained, "As applicable to other locations, limestone has higher shear strength than shale, hence providing the best learning site to students."

The day also included a visit to an Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) lab in Kansas City. At the lab, students met with five Northwest alumni working there and discussed topics like water quality assessment and lab instrumentation analysis.

Dr. Adojoh noted that "the Environmental Protection Agency in Kansas City provides a world-class professional background to the students," offering insights into how contaminated water and soil microbes are analyzed using various scientific methods.

Students expressed their appreciation for this experience. Delaney Harmon from Kansas City remarked on seeing alumni in action: “The EPA tour was super cool and interesting.” Emma Maxwell from Affton found it educational: “Having an explanation as to what they do opens your eyes to possible job opportunities.”