Students explore marine and urban ecology in transformative study abroad program in Australia

Thirty students from Hobart and William Smith Colleges (HWS) and Union College embarked on an immersive study abroad experience in Queensland, Australia, exploring marine biology and urban ecology under the guidance of Professors Sigrid Carle and Tom Drennen.
Centered at the University of Queensland, the program combined rigorous coursework, hands-on fieldwork, and cultural immersion. Students ventured into Australia’s diverse ecosystems through four major excursions, offering firsthand experience in one of the most biologically rich regions in the world.


At Girraween and Lamington National Parks, students camped and hiked distances as long as 19 kilometers, encountering unique flora and fauna. On Minjerribah (Stradbroke Island) at the Moreton Bay Research Station, students refined field techniques across ecosystems ranging from coral reefs to mangrove swamps.
The program’s capstone experience unfolded at the University of Queensland’s Heron Island Research Station, where students conducted independent research projects during eight days of daily snorkeling on the reef. “Watching sunsets over the harbor and sunrises at Shark Bay made the experience unforgettable,” said Professor Drennen.
Professor Carle described the fieldwork as deeply impactful. “Spending a week immersed in a particular environment gave all of us a greater appreciation for each ecosystem. Evening and early morning wildlife spotting was truly a highlight.”
For Dani Krenzer ’27, a biology major, the program was life-changing. “Studying in one of the world’s most biologically diverse regions has been a transformative step in my journey,” Krenzer said, reflecting on her independent research analyzing coral complexity and reef fish diversity.


Students also examined urban sustainability and environmental challenges in Brisbane through the “Urban Ecology in Brisbane” course. Topics included waste management, water use, and urban planning. Homestays provided deeper cultural insights, fostering connections with local families. “In final one-on-one meetings, students consistently expressed gratitude for the opportunity to live with Australians,” Drennen said.
For Owen Carolan ’26, a member of the HWS sailing team, the experience extended beyond academics. Carolan joined the Brisbane Yacht Club’s racing team and went on to win the club championship. Meanwhile, HWS rowers Kate Abdalla ’26, Linnea Darius ’26, and Ian Selover ’26 joined the University of Queensland crew teams, further enriching their international experience.
“Studying abroad in Australia opened up so many educational opportunities that I never would have gotten without the program,” Carolan said. “The research skills I gained have prepared me for further academic work, and the local culture was incredibly welcoming. I’m still in touch with several people from the Brisbane club.”
From the reefs of Heron Island to the urban landscapes of Brisbane, the program left students with not only enhanced academic skills but also lasting memories and connections.


FingerLakes1.com is the region’s leading all-digital news publication. The company was founded in 1998 and has been keeping residents informed for more than two decades. Have a lead? Send it to [email protected].
link