Welcome, fledgling identifiers of 2017/18

CC image by Stu

I am, I admit, entirely biased - but surely this is the one of the best assignments you'll work on all year. Not only will you develop enviable new skills, but you'll have a perfectly legitimate excuse to go for walks in the countryside whilst feeling guiltless that you're not slaving over an essay like your pitiful housemates.

There are many options to choose from, so you can pick something:
 - you'll find personally interesting and motivating to learn about,
- which suits your talents (for example, some things are physically fiddlier than others, some require a love for learning new terminology, some require a keen eye),
- that is possible given any constraints on your travel (most collections can be made locally, but seaweeds and ferns, for example, might need more distant excursions),
- that doesn't offend your ethical and other sensibilities (some collections necessitate death of invertebrates, and another has the potential to create truly revolting smells).

My main piece of advice is to start soon. Many groups are easier to find before the wintery weather sets in, so have a think and a preliminary scout about now. When you decide on something and start your field diary (as you certainly should) then you'll find a 'little and often' approach soon builds up, and this is an excellent way towards getting a good mark. With plenty of time before the hand-in, you can fit your collection round your other assignments, and I hope even find working on it an enjoyable change. Some people get really into their subject - it could help decide what you choose for your dissertation next year, or beyond into a job.

I'm always glad to talk to enthusiastic people to help with collection and identification advice, so don't be put off if I'm scowling (it's the beginning of term). Drop me an email or pop by to OJ16.
Rhiannon