Making the Most of Study Abroad #HogsAbroad in Belize

Hey, my name is Patric Waymire and I am a Fulbright Honors Student studying Biology with the aspiration of becoming a doctor. During this past May intersession, May 13-20, 2018, I participated in the Coastal Biology program in Belize under Dr. Kannan. This program focuses on the ecology of Belize and, specifically, the interactions that can be observed between different organisms while absorbing as much of the Belizean culture as possible.

To prepare for this trip I made sure to read the articles that Dr. Kannan provided to us before arriving in Belize. By making sure to read these articles, the vast amount of information and species that would be covered during our short stay was made to seem manageable rather than overwhelming. Also, these articles helped in getting me into the mindset of a biologist, a mindset that would be necessary for many aspects of the trip. In addition to reading the articles ahead of time, I also followed the checklists provided by the Study Abroad Office and Dr. Kannan, these lists are truly your best friends, and I made an additional list of things I felt I would specifically need. By planning ahead and ensuring I had everything I needed, when it came time to pack and then eventually leave, the process was stress free and effortless. I would recommend thinking through what you will be doing each day of the trip (this information was provided on Dr. Kannan’s itinerary) and planning what you need accordingly.

The biological and ecological aspect of the trip, naturally composing the majority of the program, didn’t cease to be interesting and engaging. This is due in part to the enthusiasm and charisma of Dr. Kannan, our TAs (Anant and Pooja) and our local guides Andy and Fernando. Not only were these individuals focused on showing us the ecology of Belize, but they were ecstatic about it! Countless times both Dr. Kannan and Anant would sprint, quite literally, in the hopes of seeing a bird that someone had spotted. Not to mention the local guides, Andy and Fernando Tut, were determined to make sure we had a memorable experience. So much so in fact that Andy set up an opportunity for us, upon our request, to drink fresh coconut water out of a coconut from a local farm. The combination of knowledge and enthusiasm came together seamlessly to produce an incredibly educational and memorable experience.

All in all, this short study abroad trip was one crammed full of lessons and adventures. Whether it was 5 a.m. bird walks, exploring Mayan ruins, cave tubing, or searching for scorpions, I learned more than I would have imagined and made some lasting friends and memories along the way. Thank you, Belize.

--
Patric spent the May intersession 2018 in Belize with our U of A Faculty-Led: Coastal Caribbean Biology program with the help of our our Office of Study Abroad Scholarship and the Fulbright Honors: Sturgis Study Abroad Grant

Don't miss your opportunity to study or intern abroad! Start your search at http://studyabroad.uark.edu/search/