A student died after reportedly plunging from a 100ft cliff while posing for a photo.

Andrea Norton, 20, was hiking with a group of classmates in Arkansas, America, when she tumbled from Hawksbill Crag.

It's understood she had been trying to reposition herself for a picture being taken by another member of the group, according to authorities.

Andrea, who studied environmental science at Briar Cliff University, Iowa, is one of several people to have fallen and died at the spot, reports abc news .

A spokesman for the university said: "Andrea was a passionate environmental science major, exemplary student and dedicated athlete.

"She lived BCU's values in everything she did from the classroom to the court and everywhere she went.

"Andrea made a tremendous impact on the BCU community and everyone she met and will be greatly missed."

An online obituary to Andrea, originally from Hot Springs, described her as active in sports and music and loved outdoor activities.

It read: "She enjoyed outdoor activities with her family and friends and lived her life according to her faith in God.

"Her trust in God is what led to her pursue a career in environmental studies and preserving His creation."

It went on to describe how Andrea developed a "genuine love for the planet" and devoted herself to its preservation.

The student was also described as having a "fierce love for life, her friends and family."

Newton County Sheriff Glenn Wheeler said police were called at about 9.33am before recovering her body shortly after.

Wheeler said the area is known to be dangerous and "one stumble or misstep is all it can take to turn a great day into a tragic one."

He added: "This is the second callout to the area this year that involved a serious fall, and the season is just beginning."

Andrea played volleyball for the university's women's team, who also expressed their sadness on Twitter .

They said: "We are saddened by the unexpected passing of our beloved teammate Andrea Norton.

"#22 on the court, #1 in our hearts. Thank you for the prayers, calls, texts and emails."

Her tragic death comes just days after student Sydney Paige Monfries, 22, suffered fatal injuries following the horror plunge at Fordham University campus in New York, weeks before graduation.

It's believed Sydney was trying to take Instagram pictures of the New York skyline.

When the police arrived at the scene, officers were forced to carry out a high-angle rescue after finding Sydney lying on the ground inside the tower with trauma to her head and body, it is reported.

She was rushed to St Barnabas Hospital in "extremely critical condition" where she later died.

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