Two University of Hawaiʻi students who participated in the Usujiri Field Course shared their thoughts on the course.

Field course in Usujiri – Coastal Ecology and Cultural Perspectives
Tyra Amends

As a Canadian now studying Biological Oceanography in Hawaiʻi, I have been fortunate to learn and live in places where the relationship between people, culture, and the ocean is deeply meaningful. With a research background in deep-sea fish ecology and stony coral genetics, I came to the Field Course at Usujiri excited to experience a different marine environment and learn about coastal oceanography in northern Japan. What I did not anticipate was how meaningful the experience would become beyond the science itself.

One of the most memorable parts of the course was the people. I had the opportunity to meet students, researchers, and lecturers from Japan and other countries, learning about their cultures, educational experiences, and perspectives on science.

I also deeply appreciated the time dedicated to sharing the culture and history of northern Japan. Having grown up learning about Indigenous land-use practices in Canada and now living in Hawaiʻi, where culture and connection to the land and ocean remain deeply important, it was especially meaningful to learn about the Indigenous peoples of northern Japan and their relationships with the land and sea. This perspective extended beyond the scientific aspects of the course and is something I will carry throughout my career.

The small and welcoming atmosphere of the Usujiri Field Station created a strong sense of community. In addition to learning about coastal ecology through fieldwork, laboratory activities, and lectures, I am leaving with equally valuable international friendships and cultural perspectives.

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Flannery McGreevy 

Visiting Usujiri was such a delight. From learning about eDNA to microplastics, I was intrigued by the different ways scientists across the Pacific study our oceans. One of my favorite mornings was watching the local fishermen unload their catch as the coastline and surrounding mountains were bathed in a sparkling morning light. This particular morning reminded me how deeply connected our oceans are. The same scene of fishermen returning to shore at dawn can be found around the world, from Peru to Hawaiʻi to Japan and beyond. While the communities and environments may look different, we are all connected by the ocean’s waters and the immense social, economic, cultural, and personal importance that they hold. Seeing these connections made me think more about how we can better protect and preserve our oceans. Healthy waters are essential not only for marine ecosystems, but also for the safety, livelihoods, and futures of the people and communities around the world.