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DateS
DESCRIPTION
On this two week program you will have the opportunity to visit the magnificent Costa Rican rainforests and see a variety of other ecological zones and areas in one of the world's most biodiverse countries.
During the trip you will travel to various national parks and protected areas to view both untouched forests and areas with a human presence. You will hike through cloud forests, rainforests and dry tropical forests accompanied by local guides who will explain the areas unique plant and animal life.
You will visit a biological reserve in a pre-montane rain forest . After a 3 mile hike through the rainforest in natural conditions you will settle in to the field station before a presentation and field work. All meals will be provided at the reserve.
You will see first hand the attempts at conservation taking place by local groups at La Catarata Ecolodge. As an ecotourist you will see how your stay at La Catarata differs from that of a typical 'tourist' in a multinational hotel. Leaving La Catarata you will stop for a rest at hot springs.
Moving on to San Ramon, you will visit a conservation project at Madre Verde Reserve. At the reserve you will hike along a biological corridor with reservation staff and also assist in the ongoing reforestation efforts.
Your last few days in Costa Rica will be spent getting 'hands on' experience in the struggle to save the endangered leatherback turtle. At Las Baulas National Park you will patrol the beach at night, on the lookout for turtles laying eggs in the sand. Conditions at Las Baulas are basic so as not to disrupt the natural environment but you will never forget your experience there as you actually make a difference in turtle survival rates. All meals will be provided at Las Baulas.
A relaxing day at Playa Tamarindo beach caps off the program and gives you a chance to rest and reflect on your volunteer work.
Throughout the trip, lectures by the faculty director, Earth Education International, professors from the University of Costa Rica, government ministers, NGO leaders and community organizers will help you understand an appreciate Costa Rica's environment and the challenges it faces in conservation.
During this study tour you will see more flora and fauna than you could ever have imagined. This program is a great opportunity for anyone interested in the rainforests, conservation of natural resources and human interactions with the natural world.
This program is run in conjunction with Earth Education International (EEI), an experiential learning organization in Costa Rica. Please click here to visit EEI's info page for the program which includes a tentative itinerary and packing list.
The sites listed above, trip itinerary and syllabus are subject to change.
CREDITS
3 credits at the undergraduate level in:
*The 3 credits earned for NCLC 495 will count towards NCC's required 'experiental learning' credits.
Center for Global Education - Mason Abroad reserves the right to make any necessary changes should unforeseen circumstances arise.
Housing
Housing conditions will vary from multiple-occupancy rustic biological field station rooms to middle-range hotels.
FACULTY
Joe Smith, Environmental Science & Policy, GMU
ELIGIBILITY
The program is open to George Mason University and non-Mason students of all levels, staff, faculty, and alumni, as well as the general public. To obtain credit, you need at least a 2.25 GPA.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
As Costa Rica is a tropical country and this study tour will lead you into close contact with the natural environment, you are high encouraged to visit the CDC website and review its recommendations for travelers.
COST
Program Fee: $2,950 ($3,000 for Non Mason Students)
The program fee includes:
The fee does NOT include:
Center for Global Education - Mason Abroad reserves the right to make any necessary changes including adjustments in cost in the event that unforeseen circumstances arise.
CGE reserves the right to raise its program fees in light of currency fluctuations or any other unforeseen circumstances.
APPLICATION & DEADLINE
Deadline: October 5, 2007
Participants who submit a completed application (Center for Global Education - Mason Abroad application and all required application materials) by September 14, 2007 will receive a $100 discount off the program fee.
To apply, first, consult the "How to Apply" section and, second, complete the online Center for Global Education - Mason Abroad application. You must pay the non-refundable $75 application fee and the $100 non-refundable airline deposit for your application to be considered.
CONTACT INFORMATION
Program Officer: Denise Elles-Mdahuar