In a recent interview, Demitrea Marallo, a senior Animal Ecology major, told the Education Abroad team about her experience studying abroad on the winter break Field Course to South Africa program.
Demitrea described why she chose to study in South Africa, stating how “the opportunity presented itself, and I thought ‘Why not before I graduate?’” She also had interests in the program relating to her future career, hoping the program would help “get my foot in the door for future job prospects.”
Field Work and Undergraduate Research in South Africa
The Field Course to South Africa program consists of two courses taught by Dr. David Ward and a travel component to South Africa over winter break. In the preparation course prior to travel, students meet once a week to learn about South African culture and prepare for their field experience. During the field course, students travel to eastern South Africa and engage in hands-on field work and research in the savanna biome.
Demitrea noted some of the environmental issues students get to learn about throughout this experience. “Poaching is the largest issue they [South African animals] are facing right now.” But in more hopeful news, Demitrea and the other students met people on the ground who are helping solve these issues. “We met managers at Wildlife Rehab Centers” who make it their life-goal to help animals in need.
Experiencing Kruger National Park Through Study Abroad
One of the many reasons why Demitrea recommends this program is due to the changes in environment students experience. “The Savanna Biome,” Demitrea said, “is such a change from Ohio due to the heat and the sun,” noting that the program would be great for any huge summer fans.
The locations she was able to visit also stuck out to Demitrea, particularly Kruger National Park. When describing the park, Demitrea stated that “They [the people who work at the park] know a lot about the ecosystem,” and that “seeing South African animals confirmed my career path; it ignited a fire in me.”
Demitrea also said that the Field Course to South Africa program allows students of any diet to try great local cuisine. “They accommodated me being a vegetarian,” she said, highlighting that Madam Taitou was her favorite restaurant during the program.
Study Abroad Advice for Future Ecology Students
Before finishing the interview, Demitrea said exactly why she believes other students should join the Field Course to South Africa program.
“Especially if you haven’t been out of the country, I think that going on a study abroad is a very gratifying way to travel. You get to work toward something truly great.”
Are you interested in studying abroad in South Africa? Learn more about the Field Course to South Africa program here.
