S-A-S is a two-semester course offered for all undergraduate students at Eckerd.  During the spring semester, students take the first class in preparation for a research cruise in the Gulf of Mexico, where they learn skills such as scientific objectives, field methods training, and sample processing.  Once on the cruise, students take turns with tasks such as multi-core sediment collection, sediment trap retrieval, and other activities that take place on a research cruise.  In the fall semester, students analyze the data from the cruise and turn it into a research project of their own design.  By the end of fall semester, students are able to present their research posters at an S-A-S research symposium and connect with community partners.  Learn more about S-A-S here! 

S-A-S is taught by Dr. Brooks, Dr. Larson, & Dr. Schwing.  Meet the 2026 cohort here.