Tropical Ecology and Conservation Research in Costa Rica

Tropical Ecology and Conservation (Bio181) exposes Tufts students to critical issues in biodiversity conservation, and also immerses them in hands-on research and international culture in a two-week trip to Costa Rica over winter break. The course is frequently a highlight of students’ time at Tufts, and for many, changes their career trajectories. Previously, students have been able to take this course regardless of their ability to pay but those funds are no longer available.

Your support will help us continue this incredible Costa Rica research experience and provide the opportunity to any interested student, regardless of their personal finances.

Providing immersive research opportunities to students is a point of Tufts pride. This course is often the first opportunity students have to design their own research project. They have to identify a compelling idea, develop a research plan, write a proposal, and then are asked to carry out their research in the field. They are pushed out of their comfort zone and get a good dose of humble pie as the realities of field work can challenge even the best laid plans. It gives me, the instructor, endless satisfaction watching them grow as scientists and thinkers during the course.

For many students, Tropical Ecology and Conservation is also their first chance traveling internationally and can be especially enlightening for students that have not had the privilege to study abroad. Exposure to diverse perspectives, cultures, and natural ecosystems is so important for the development of young scholars, and students come away with a global perspective and new friends in the process.

Please consider donating to Tropical Ecology and Conservation. Your support will make this life-changing experience possible for all students. Thank you!