Glad you knew that it was a snapping turtle! I had one demonstrated at a park in Florida. It was shocking to a) see a ranger taunt one (mind you it was fun), and b) how far and quickly they can snap behind them. In Florida, I'm one of THOSE people that jump out of my car, pick up a turtle that has ventured into traffic and re-direct them. After the ranger show, I watch out for their pointy butt.
AND CONGRATS!!!!! Are you totally finished school now? Or are you still teaching?