For the first week, students receive background information in the form of lecture and field studies. During the second week, students independently construct a project focusing on a scientific question. Prior to the program, students should possess a basic knowledge of biology and the scientific method. A typical day at Mountain Lake consists of a brief lecture followed by field studies. Daily excursions include rigorous 1-3 hour hikes that focus on a specific topic and often require students to collect data.
Students return to lab to analyze data.
At night, students attend seminars conducted by researchers at Mountain Lake Biological Station. Fieldwork is often conducted at night. Students with a willingness to explore the hilly terrain on long hikes and venture into muddy caves should apply. Students with a curiosity about ecological processes of the Southern Appalachians and a strong background in high school level science will enjoy this outdoor learning opportunity.