Seven Hillyer College Honors students recently had the opportunity to get up close and personal with an endangered African penguin at Mystic Aquarium’s Penguin Encounter experience. This was the second visit to the aquarium by Professor Stephan Bullard’s Marine Biology Honors class.
After an informative discussion with a member of the aquarium staff, students took turns having a one-on-one interaction with the penguin that weighs about eight to 10 pounds and is native to the southern coastlines and islands of South Africa and Namibia.
“It was a really enjoyable experience,” says Diana Isaacs ‘27, who is studying psychology. “I enjoyed learning about the penguins from the trainer who had a wide breadth of knowledge. I did find it interesting that the penguin tried to sleep with us in the room, and she told us that this meant he trusted us.”
Justin Wichowski ’27, who is majoring in finance, says he learned how important it is to take care of the ocean and the environment so these animals can continue living their best life. “The marine biology class is really fun and a good learning experience,” he says. “It’s also fun to learn about something I typically wouldn't pay much mind to, and I feel more knowledgeably after this experience in this course.”
“I am extremely excited to teach the Honors-level Marine Biology course this semester,” says Bullard. “I love getting the chance to share my expertise with a new generation of students. I wanted to make sure they had a truly memorable experience. It seemed like visiting with Mystic Aquarium’s penguins would be ideal! Everyone seemed to have a great time and learned a lot.”