Thank you so much for giving me the opportunity to participate in EPI's Ecology Program, it was a once in a life time experience. Participating in Ecology Program International really made me open my eyes and realize my passion for Research in Conservation Biology, and it is something I would love to do in the near future. During the program, I was able to work along with researchers, collecting data and a lot of hands-on projects. Costa Rica was all about learning as well as facing fears. Once we arrived to Pacuare Nature Reserve we were given patrol shifts. Along with a scientist, each night we would patrol the Caribbean side of Costa Rica in search of Leatherback sea turtles. I was lucky enough to work with this amazing creature during several patrols. My job was to measure them, count the eggs as they laid them, and also check for injuries. Although the patrols were a lot of fun and brought amazing experiences, they were also challenging. Most of the patrolling occurred from 12 to 4 o'clock in the morning; we would have to walk a great amount of miles each night by only using red light, which could only be used when you felt in danger. So, most of the time we would have to walk with no light at all to prevent scaring the turtles. It was raining season in Costa Rica, therefore the tide rose each night, which made it extremely dangerous to walk to Pacuare on our way back from the patrol. We would have to go inside the Rain Forest and walk back for at least 2 hours. Although the wildlife is amazing, there were plenty of snakes around, which I was really afraid of, especially when you only have a small flashlight. During this trip, I got over my fear and now I think of snakes as pretty cool creatures. This trip also made me appreciate what I have, small things such as electricity and hot water; I never knew how important they would be until I went a week without them. Although this experience came with many challenges, it was something I will never forget, it changed my whole perspective and appreciation for the things I have. I learned a lot, not only as a person but also in the science field. I cannot thank you enough for all your help and support. Once again thank you and PURA VIDA!

Click this link to read a blog that was updated by other students and me during our adventure in Costa Rica: http://www.ecologyproject.org/epiblog/from-the-field-final-thoughts-from-north-carolina-aquarium-youth-in-costa-rica/