Testimonials

Current Hybrid Online MS students tell us all about FOR 810: Forestry Field Techniques

"For anyone considering the Hybrid Online MS Forestry program at MSU, I think that the first course, Forestry 810, offers the best introduction to forestry as a field of study and a potential career. The class offers an intensive overview of field techniques and concepts that I have referred to frequently as I’ve proceeded through the online courses that follow. Every time I encounter a new concept or assignment, I look back to an introduction to the concept that was delivered in Forestry 810. In addition to the intro to terms, concepts, and techniques, the class also offered an introduction to people currently working in the field, as foresters, loggers, mill operators, etc. This helped provide a real picture of the kind of work that might follow completion of the program.

The other benefit of the Forestry 810 introduction was an introduction to a great group of people who were also beginning the program. We had people from all over the USA and one from Europe. We had time to get to know one another and to learn about all the background experiences that our classmates brought to the study of forestry. There was a great variety of backgrounds represented, including some with extensive experience in forestry-related fields and many others with no experience, but with a strong interest in and love of forests. We also had a range of “life experience” represented, from recent college grads on up to semi-retirees (like me). Our group has stayed in touch, and we have continued to support one another as we’ve moved through the program.

I strongly recommend the Forestry 810 introductory course. There is really no better way to get introduced to the field and to appreciate what it might be like to complete the program and work in forestry."

GREG ROSS
Student

"I had no idea what to expect. I had chatted with a couple other alums and they said expect to be overwhelmed, and that it’s an experience – and they were right! I came in open minded about what it would be.

I was surprised by how much travel we did, the different forests we got to see, and all the professionals who took time from their work to spend time with us – it really blew me away.

My advice to those who don’t have much or any forestry experience is start now with tree ID – get used to looking at bark, leaves, etc., try to find local tree ID hikes in your area or hikes with park rangers. Jim has a list of Michigan trees you will be tested on (that happens the first day) – so trying to look up photos of those trees and do flashcards especially if you’re from out of state. Reading the Michigan Forests book ahead of time will help with getting a broad picture of forestry in general. Some podcasts you can begin to listen to are Completely Arbortrary and Silvicast. One of my favorite books I read was How to Love a Forest by Ethan Trapp (a forester in Vermont) – it’s more of a philosophical read on the importance of forest management but written for the general public. Get involved with volunteering locally – it could be in conservation or anything that would get you experience with forests, habitats, tools, removing invasive species.

On a personal note, FOR810 was one of the best experiences of my academic life. It was foundational in helping me feel confident to enter the next phase of online learning. This was such a special experience, and I have so many fond memories from it – so my next piece of advice would be: try to enjoy it."

KATIE FREY
Communications Manager, MSU

"The in person week long introduction into the course in August of 2024 was really great to jump into forestry and get to know my classmates. During the program, many of the courses have required going into the field conduct data collection and field techniques.

This program requires serious dedication and curiosity, but the professors and classmates bring a wealth of knowledge and experience that enrich students’ experiences.

Don’t hesitate to reach out to professors or classmates with any and all questions, I like to inquire about more practical aspects of forestry with my classmates and professors as I come from a research background."

JOHN LOOMIS
Postdoctoral Researcher