Geologic Evolution of Vermont This course explores the fascinating geology of Vermont. Students learn the geology through six field problems, involving extended trips around western Vermont. Lectures on the meaning of rocks support the fieldwork. The last few indoor labs are devoted to understanding the geologic map of Vermont. Emphasis is on descriptive writing and on use of data to interpret origin of rocks. Culminates in a written report on the geologic and plate tectonic evolution of Vermont.

Earth Resources: Origin, Use, and Environmental Impacts The global economy world politics, and many aspects of our daily lives are dependent on the extraction and use of materials taken from the Earth.  Unfortunately, within our lifetimes, we will be faced with significant shortages of many of these resources.  In this course we will focus on how resources such as oil, coal, aluminum, and even gem minerals are generated by geological processes, how they are extracted and processed, and how these activities impact the environment.  Several field trips will allow us to view first-hand the impacts of resource extraction and use in the local area.

Mineralogy This course covers the nature, identification, composition, and meaning of minerals and mineral assemblages. Introduction to crystallography, hand-specimen identification, optical mineralogy, x-ray analysis, and electron microbeam analysis. Laboratory: study of minerals in hand-specimen and under the polarizing microscope; use of x-ray diffraction and electron microscopy in mineral analysis.

David West

Dave West is my favorite professor at this college and he's super accommodating and understanding. I would recommend reaching out to him before the first lab is due, as his grading is a little bit confusing.

I really enjoyed this FYS, Davis West is very knowledgeable and a very approachable person, so I felt comfortable asking questions and talking with him. The amount of writing is definitely manageable if give yourself enough time.

Professor West's lectures are clear and interesting. This class doesn't have a lot of readings and assignments. It's a great balance with other heavy classes. Prof. West is kind and willing to provide useful advice. Taking this class can expand your outlook!