In Spring 2023 and 2024, students embarked on an unforgettable journey through The Expedition: Leatherback Sea Turtle and Tropical Ecology in Costa Rica, a 3-credit Education Abroad course with a strong service-learning component. Led by West Plains campus Assistant Professor Ana Estrella, this short-term program immersed students in the study of leatherback sea turtles, coral reef ecology, and tropical ecosystems. Beyond the classroom, students took part in vital conservation work. They assisted biologists at Pacuare Natural Reserves, gathering data on sea turtle nesting activities, and contributed to a coral reef census at Cahuita National Park, helping assess fish populations. Their efforts directly supported research and conservation initiatives led by governmental and non-profit organizations. Offered in partnership with MSU-Springfield, this hands-on course gave students a deeper understanding of environmental challenges and the chance to make a real impact in marine conservation.

Full story coming soon.