Th
is summer, approximately 50 students in the Greater Los Angeles area have been chosen to experience some firsthand field science alongside fellow peers and leading scientists in an all-expenses paid expedition into nature. These students, who have been separated into 6 teams, will each spend one to two weeks participating in hands-on environmental research at six different research locations across the country.
This exciting experience for these students have been created by the Earthwatch Institute, a “diverse community of scientists, educators, students, and businesspeople who work together to get the fullest benefit from scientific research” according to their website. Each year, the Earthwatch staff members located in eight different countries of the world work with hundreds of scientists each year to engage students, teachers, and volunteers in scientific research and education.
According to Dr. E.O. Wilson of Harvard University, “Earthwatch does more than back vital research; it inspires us to understand our global responsibilities as citizens of the world.”
To achieve its goals of research, education, and conservation of nature, the Earthwatch Institute implements various projects annually that focus on climate change, cultural heritage, ecosystem services and oceans, including this Los Angeles Student Fellowship Program. This year, the program will send students to locations including Wyoming, Texas, Louisiana, and Nevada, and will help them study topics such as songbirds, fossils, caterpillars, and climate control.
Apart from the fieldwork, students will also be given the chance to enjoy the wildlife and landscape, go hiking or kayaking, or attend any local cultural events. As students step away from their comfort zone and head off into a new environment, they will experience an opportunity completely beyond their prior experiences within a classroom.
Sounds like an interesting science program! 🙂