The UC Natural Reserve System is now accepting applications for its Summer 2019 California Ecology and Conservation course. Please see full announcement below. Added bonus: participants can now have their final research project published in CEC Research, a brand new journal that enables students to cite their work when applying for jobs, graduate school, scholarships, and awards.
We are pleased to announce that we are now accepting applications for the Summer 2019 offering of the UC Natural Reserve System field course, California Ecology and Conservation. Applications can be found here and are due on February 5, 2019 so please spread the word!
This relatively new program, launched in Fall 2015, has been a tremendous success. Students from across the UC system have gained strong independent scientific research skills while immersed in the training grounds of the UC natural reserves, from Big Sur to the Mojave Desert, from coastal redwoods to California grasslands to high altitude bristlecone pines. Check out this video to get glimpses of what students are calling the most rewarding experience in their undergraduate careers. Here is what some alumni have said about the experience.
“This course has made me fall in love with the process of science!” – UC Davis student
“My research, writing, and public speaking skills have improved and I am certain that this is a result of this class.” – UC Los Angeles student
“This course has given me an in-depth understanding of scientific research that I haven’t gained anywhere else. I have learned more about what a career in this field would look like in the last 50 days than the rest of my undergraduate career.” – UC Santa Cruz student
“I loved getting to spend the summer in some of the most beautiful places in California with a group of amazing people.” – UC Berkeley student
California Ecology and Conservation brings together 27 undergraduates from across the UC system for seven weeks of intensive learning at NRS reserves. Experienced field instructors help undergraduates transform into scientists. Students complete a series of increasingly independent research studies while learning to notice natural patterns, frame questions into feasible research projects, and practice standard field techniques. At the conclusion of each project, students analyze their data and present their findings in oral presentations and written reports. Students hone their research, public speaking, and scientific writing skills with constant practice and feedback. All the while, students gain a working familiarity with California’s diverse ecosystems.
All UC undergraduates who have a 2.5+ GPA, are in good standing with their home campus, and have successfully completed an introductory biology course are eligible to apply. If students from majors not listed are interested in taking the course, they can petition their departments to receive credits toward their major, minor, and GE requirements.
More information is available on the course website.