Samuel DeCero
  • Biology
  • Class of 2017
  • Dyer, IN

Samuel DeCero participated in a J-Term study tour to Costa Rica

2015 Feb 5

Samuel DeCero of Dyer, IN participated in a J-Term study tour to Costa Rica with Carthage College.

The "Tropical Ecology of Costa Rica" study tour took students to different sites in Costa Rica to hike, explore, and research the country's incredibly rich natural resources. Students visited research stations, wildlife preserves, and communities to learn about and contribute to the country's conservation efforts. Costa Rica is among the 20 most bio-diverse countries in the world and is a model for other countries because of its successes in sustainable development centering on natural resources and ecotourism. Costa Rican wildlife biologists and naturalists guided students in birding, batting, and other wildlife watching, including day and night hikes in the forests. The 11-day stay included visits to lowland rainforest, thermal hot springs and waterfalls, cloud forests, and sustainable coffee and chocolate farms. Each student conducted independent research and contributed to ongoing ecological research projects.

J-Term is a special month-long period of study in which Carthage students explore subjects outside their majors or minors, discover new interests, and test their creativity through classes held both on campus and around the world. It's a month to experiment, create and dream. Carthage is ranked No. 7 in the nation among baccalaureate institutions for student participation in short-term study abroad.