High Impact Practices Student Showcase Fall 2025

From Microplastics to Mangroves: My Journey Through Environmental Service

From Microplastics to Mangroves: My Journey Through Environmental Service

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Course Code

BSC

Course Number

4310

Faculty/Instructor

Dr. Linda Walters

Faculty/Instructor Email

linda.walters@ucf.edu

About the Author

I would like to acknowledge my professor, Dr. Walters, for being an inspiring and driven professor, as well as CEELAB and CCA Florida for being so welcoming and educating.

Abstract, Summary, or Creative Statement

This course’s learning goal was to provide real-world learning experiences that enhance scientific research and communication skills through hands-on, community-based projects. Throughout the semester, I participated in a variety of environmental service-learning activities, including a microplastics project, mangrove tree gardening, and creation of cement structures for use in oyster reef restoration. These experiences allowed me to engage directly with environmental science in a meaningful way.

In addition to the course objectives, I set personal learning goals to deepen my understanding of the connection between science and community impact. I aimed to improve my confidence in applying scientific methods outside the classroom, to develop stronger collaboration and problem-solving skills, and to better understand how small-scale conservation efforts contribute to larger environmental solutions. This course has presented me opportunities and has opened my eyes to new paths of environmental stewardship that I was not aware of previously.

Keywords

Microplastics; Mangroves; Oyster reefs; Mangrove Gardening; Oyster Reef Rings; CCA Florida; CEELAB; Marine Conservation; Marine Restoration

From Microplastics to Mangroves: My Journey Through Environmental Service


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