FAQ
- How do I find out more about the BSGS?
- What year, which field trip?
- What is equipment or gear do I need on a field
trip? - Where can I buy a compass, hand lens, etc ?
- Why are all the men called David or Andrew?
How do I find out more about the BSGS?
The BSGS is run by students for students and the best way to find out more about the Society is to ask other members and of course, read both the Notice Board and Web-Site.
The Birkbeck Student Geological Society was formed in the Summer Term of the 1997-8 academic year. Its aim is to supplement knowledge of geology through lectures and events within a relaxing and enjoyable environment.
In previous years, the society has presented lectures: ‘Montserrat: The Forgotten Eruption,’ by Prof. W. McGuire (UCL), which was filmed by ITV; ‘The Inter-action of Climate and Geology on Wine-Quality’ by Prof. J. Hancock (Imperial College); ‘Italian Earthquakes’ by Dr. G. Roberts of the College Staff; and ‘How to Compile a Mapping Project’ by D. Thompson (Birkbeck Graduate), and outdoor activities: a geological walk in the City led by Dr. C. Bishop (former Keeper of Minerals, Natural History Museum); a weekend trip to northern France and a fossil hunting day at Wenlock in Shropshire, both led by Dr. N. Morton (formerly of the College staff). The society also subsidises the highlight of the year which is the post-exam field trip. The first trip was to North Wales, led by Dr. B. Roberts (former Head of Geology, Birkbeck College).
Anyone is welcome to join. Birkbeck graduate students can become full members whilst others can become associate members.
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What year, which field trip?
Single Honours Geology or Environmental Geology students must attend 4 field trips. Currently they are:
First Year - Isle of Skye (brilliant)
Second Year - Greece
Third/Fourth Year (alternating years) - Cyprus and Pyrenees
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What equipment or gear do I need on a fieldtrip?
Apart from the technical equipment such as hand lens, compass, clinometer, mapping board, pens, note book, hard hat, hammer, camera, etc, it is important to ensure that you are dressed appropriately at all times. Given constant exposure to the elements - wind, rain, cold, remember to dress warmly, preferably in layers. Invest in a good pair of boots and make sure they are well broken in before your field trip. There is nothing worse than a brand new pair of boots and a long day in the field.
Other important items include a rucksack, warm clothing such as a fleece, waterproof trousers and jacket. Do not wear jeans or cords as they retain water, lose heat and are very heavy when wet. Scarves, gloves and hats are also useful in cold weather, while sunglasses can often come in handy.
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Where can I buy a compass, hand lens, etc?
The college can sell you, at discount, a combined compass/clinometer, hand lens, notebooks and hammers. See Maz for details of prices.
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Why are all the men called David or Andrew?
Difficult to say exactly why but at last count there were at least 4 students and 1 lecturer called Dave or David:
Professor David Price
Dave McCann (Society Secretary) - 4th Year
David Heard - 3rd Year
David Morrison - 2nd Year
Dave Thompson - Demonstrator
Little known or interesting facts about each David:
Professor David Price - apparently he is Welsh and is the guru of Mineral Physics.
Dave McCann - would appear to be an East-End Scot.
David Heard - loves Wellies and hails from South Africa
David Morrison -
Dave Thompson - has a variety of nicknames, the cleanest of which is ‘Concrete Dave’. Has a highway named after him in Alberta, Canada (thanks to Kwame Ofori for this information).
If not called Dave, the men in the department are invariably called Andy.