Round River Conservation Studies

There are not many programs out there that can offer such a unique and immersive environmentally-focused study abroad experience. I got the opportunity to spend three months in Patagonia, Chile with an amazing group of like-minded, passionate students. I have never been with a more supportive and engaging community in my life. It was very easy to feel grounded when surrounded by beautiful landscapes and curious friends. Not only did I learn about the natural history and culture of Patagonia, but I also learned a lot about the importance of organization, community and scientific communication, and preparation for longer remote field work excursions. There are plenty of challenges and tough moments that come with living in a tent for three months, but those quickly become learning experiences and moments for personal growth. Identifying bryophytes with views of a glacier, learning from my host family about the challenges of sheep farming, and cooking/eating delicious group meals together were some of my highlights during my time with Round River Conservation Studies!

I saw, learned, and experianced so much more then I can put in a review. The landsacpe is breathtaking. So many of the people I met were so admirable, and learning from from the community partners, the teachers, and my fellow students felt like drinking from a interdisciplinary firehose! I miss everyone very much. I apreciate how the program is primarily a conservation research organisation; and the actual research is meaningful and empowering. As a student you learn on the job, and take clases during in the afternoons.

I learned so much about the community and how conservation work within this region. This program made me think about the larger implications of effect community based natural resource management and how it offers a alternative method of conservation that focuses on the economics of the region.