To end the school year, the 7th graders embarked on their last adventure in science and took a trip to a magical oasis in the Thimble Islands of Branford, CT known as Outer Island. Outer Island is the furthest island out in the Thimbles (hence the name, “Outer Island”) and has a long history behind it, both anthropogenic (human) and environmental (geologic). To reach the island, our class needed to take a 15 minute boat ride through the Thimbles which was an incredible experience in itself. There are over 300 islands in the area! Upon arrival to the island, the school group was welcomed by the Island Keepers who are stationed on the island with US Fish Wildlife Services (USFWS) and volunteers from the organization “Friends of Outer Island.” The first activity students learned about invasive species and their impacts on the ecosystems. One invasive species that is prevalent on the island is the Asian Shore Crab. The students collected and studied the crabs, distinguishing between male and female, and recorded the data for species population monitoring. After the students took samples and surveys of the Asian Shore Crabs, recorded data for scientific research, the students had crab races! Next was a combination of bird surveying, I-Spy, a tour and history (human and environmental) lesson of the Island. The students were given binoculars and told about various things to be on the lookout for (such as birds known as a Double-Crested Cormorant or an Oystercatcher). As we walked around the island in search of certain items and organisms, the students also received a history lesson of the area. After lunch, students gathered in the lab and split into three groups to use water quality measuring instruments like a thermometer, hydrometer, and pH strips. They collected water samples from the dock (under the Island Keepers Supervision) to monitor the aquatic ecosystem health of Long Island Sound. By the end of the trip, students understood the difference between a wildlife refuge, which focuses on the health of organisms and the ecosystems and a National Park, which is targeted towards tourism. Students also learned the responsibilities of the Island Keeper and about some of the studies conducted on the island along with their significance. Overall, students had a magical time on Outer Island and more importantly were able to establish a stronger connection to the natural world we are coexisting in.