From Curious Kid to Paleontologist: Ethan’s Thanksgiving Point Journey

During one of his first few visits to the Museum of Ancient Life, Ethan met Rick Hunter, Thanksgiving Point’s resident paleontologist. Unearthing a 150-million-year-old Barosaurus, Ethan became enthralled with Rick’s expertise at a Lab Live, where Rick allows kids to ask questions and learn more about the paleontology process. After the talk ended, Ethan still had a dozen more questions – and that curiosity sparked a connection. Soon, he was showing up regularly at the museum’s Paleontology Lab, convincing his mom to bring him as often as possible. Rick became his mentor, encouraging Ethan’s passion and helping him turn it into a future.

Years later, Ethan is now studying paleontology in college and works as a field researcher and fossil preparator. He still keeps in touch with Rick and hasn’t left Thanksgiving Point behind. These days, you might even catch him on the other side of the podium, returning to the museum to give Lab Live lextures of his own.

Because of your support, kids can find inspiration, guidance, and a path forward in the sciences. Thank you for helping us nurture the next generation of explorers and scientists – and be sure to stop by the Paleontology Lab to meet Rick and Ethan, still working on uncovering that Barosaurus.