Home • Galapagos |
||||||||||||||||||||
 |
Course OverviewOne of the first UNESCO World Heritage sites, the spectacular Galápagos Islands host a unique flora and fauna found nowhere else on Earth. Through our Galapágos Islands Ecology Program, Ecology Project International students from the Galápagos and around the world work in partnership with the Galápagos National Park and local institutions to conserve the archipelago. Students travel to several locations on three different islands, monitor endemic giant tortoises and remove invasive plant species, all while studying and experiencing this magical place. Ecology Project International students will be a part of the conservation solution in Galápagos while learning through hands-on research, service and cultural exchange. Conservation ImpactScientists in Galápagos use Ecology Project International students' work to improve conservation efforts for the archipelago. Habitat loss caused by invasive species creates one of the biggest threats currently facing the islands. As EPI students collect data on giant tortoises, help remove invasive plants, and restore critical habitat needed by native and endemic species, they help ensure future survival of the giant tortoise in these remote and beautiful islands. Academics and EducationDuring their time in the field, Ecology Project International students serve as volunteers for Latin American conservation institutions. Under the leadership of our outstanding instructors and as part of the Galápagos tortoise monitoring project, every student conceives, develops, analyses, and presents a field-based research project using data they collect – such as tortoise carapace length, width, and weight. Students also participate in activities about ecology, island biogeography, evolution, art, and journaling. They also spend time snorkeling in the Galápagos Marine Reserve where they observe countless fish and other beautiful sea life. Cultural ExchangeMore than half of our participants at this project site are from Galápagos. Ecology Project International's commitment to local communities provides a unique cultural exchange opportunity for international students who participate in our study abroad programs. After each group completes the field research, students meet their international peers and share their experiences and academic projects at a local school. PartnersU.S. students collaborate with their Galapagueño peers, the National Park, foundations, and government agencies in an international effort to ensure the protection of the islands. Our partners and supporters for this project include:
Testimonials"I went to the Galapagos my junior year,
and now I am a freshman studying environmental science at MIT.
My trip with EPI was probably one of the best experiences I had in
high school - it definitely shaped who I am today." "I feel more comfortable with myself, more empowered! I pushed
my limits a lot and was fine with it. I feel ready to go to college
and travel for longer periods of time now. I grew up a lot." |
|
 |
