Uncover the mysteries of Earth's ancient past in this engaging class on one of the most thrilling subjects in all of science: paleontology! In this class, students will explore the science of fossils, prehistoric life, and ancient ecosystems, learning to answer a variety of fun and scientifically relevant questions from “How well could a T. rex smell?” to “How does paleontology affect the modern world?” Through interactive lessons, hands-on activities, and virtual activities, students will learn how fossils form, discover the techniques paleontologists use to uncover ancient creatures, and investigate the evolution of life on Earth. After hearing about the instructor’s own experiences with paleontological research in the lab and in the field, students will feel inspired to appreciate the pure wonder and magnificence of the prehistoric world.
Open to Middle and High School Students
Introduction to Paleontology
Length: 6 weeks
Dates and times: Tuesdays and Thursdays, 1:00 PM - 1:50 PM (EST)
First day of class: June 10, 2025
Last day of class: July 17, 2025
Ash DiCristofalo received her Bachelor's from Haverford College, where she majored in Biology, before receiving her Master's in Bioengineering and Master's Certificate in Engineering Entrepreneurship from the University of Pennsylvania. A lifelong paleontology fanatic, she has experience with paleontology in the lab and the field, excavating 66-million-year-old fossils at the Edelman Fossil Park in New Jersey and assisting with research on those fossils back at the Paleo Lab of Rowan University with a team led by Dr. Kenneth Lacovara, the discoverer of the dinosaur Dreadnoughtus schranii. She recently wrapped up a position working as the Director of Graduate Engineering Programs at Haverford College, where she has also served for the past couple of years as an alumni admissions interviewer. Ash has successfully worked with My Ivy Education students for years, guiding them on application essays that get them accepted to the top colleges and private high schools in the country, all while incorporating her signature creative and analytical approach. In her free time, Ash contributes as a volunteer to scientific research projects from around the world.