1. Where in the world were you?

I was in Bocas del Toro, Isla Colon, Panama at the Smithsonian's Tropical Research Institute's Marine Laboratory.

2. What work were you doing there?

During spring and summer term, biology professor Richard Emlet and I worked with nine UO undergraduate students in preparation for a September field study of tropical marine biology and environmental issues. The culmination was an intense, two-week, field-based course in Panama at the STRI lab where we explored the coral reefs, seagrass beds and mangrove forest of the Caribbean. We also spent a day in Panama City visiting the canal, the fish market and the Smithsonian’s Nature Center, and one day on the Caribbean mainland visiting a banana plantation and a cacao farm. We blogged about our experiences. The course was partially funded by the Williams Council.

3. What does this work mean for your students, peers, the public and/or the university?

This was an opportunity for UO marine biology, biology and environmental science undergrads to learn about the tropical marine environment. The students did daily journal writings that reflected their experience. Excerpts from these journals give you an idea of what the course meant to students: "It is one thing to read about tropical ecosystems, but now that I have seen them up close it really makes you appreciate them and understand the weight of environmental issues they face.” “While I learned an incredible amount of information about tropical marine biology and environmental issues I feel the real life learning comes from being in a new place and pushing your comfort zone. I may not be a fully fledged citizen of the world yet, but Panama has definitely helped me level up.” “This trip has been a growing experience for me in so many ways. I now consider myself a brave and experienced snorkeler and my ability to recognize reef creatures and components has advanced beyond measure.”

For Richard and me, it was a great chance to revisit tropical marine biology, as we have both spent time in the Caribbean in our younger days as scientists. For the university, a study abroad experience for science majors can only be a draw for prospective students.

4. Tell our readers something they should do if they ever visit this locale.

Bocas del Toro is a small town on the Caribbean Panamanian coast with hotels, restaurants and many opportunities for exploring the marine environment. It is close to Costa Rica and would easily be combined with a trip to that country.

5. What was the most memorable experience on your trip?

The entire experience was memorable. We all worked hard, snorkeled miles, took thousands of photos, ate well, stretched our minds and had a wonderful experience. The UO students were exceptional; they bravely decided it was worth a gamble to sign up for a newly designed program, in a place they had never been. It proved to be a good choice, and it gave Richard and me the opportunity to get to know nine fine young men and women.

UO Abroad is a recurring feature in AroundtheO that spotlights UO professors, staff and GTFs whose work takes them overseas. If you or someone you know is traveling abroad, contact Communications Specialist Matt Cooper at mattc@uoregon.edu.