December 21, 2023
Belize study abroad expands students' understanding of tropical ecosystems, climate change
Study abroad is an enriching experience for students of all majors and education majors are no exception.
Last summer Dr. Tammy Lee and Mrs. Bonnie Glass, faculty in the science education program, took East Carolina University students to Belize. There were thirteen energetic explorers, including undergraduate and graduate students in elementary and science education, as well as biology majors.
“The experience in Belize was truly captivating,” said Krystal Krill, one of the participants from the College of Education. “From the culture to the flora and fauna, the experience provided me with a greater appreciation beyond my normal expectations of the things and people around me. I want to learn more about the environment around me and what it has to offer. I normally wouldn’t give a bird a second look if it landed near me, but I find myself stopping, observing, and taking in the moments more.”
During the nine-day study of how humans connect and impact tropical and coastal ecosystems while experiencing the impacts of climate change, students engaged in field work with Belizean naturalists and conservationists.
“My life-changing experience in Belize taught me many things, but most importantly provided me with a chance to truly see the amazing world we live in, how it is all interconnected, and how and why we should protect it at all costs to the best of our ability,” said Lizzie Phipps, one of the biology majors on the trip.
They visited Mountain Pine Ridge, the Belize Zoo, Jaguar Preserve and South Water Caye, affording them the opportunity to experience the wide ranges of biodiversity of these tropical ecosystems.
“I learned so much from our amazing guides about their culture and how they view the wildlife and ecosystems around them,” said Katie Nickels, another participant. “This trip has changed my life for the better and has encouraged me to be more mindful about the life around me and how it is affected by climate change.”
