Help Me Study Abroad in Ireland for Field Biology!

Brittney Covington Start Date: Mar 4, 2020 - End Date: Jul 3, 2020
  • Educational/Research Trip
  • Professional Development
  • Study/Degree Abroad

My Travel Story

by: Brittney Covington Start Date: Mar 4, 2020 - End Date: Jul 3, 2020
  • Educational/Research Trip
  • Professional Development
  • Study/Degree Abroad
Ireland is one of the most biodiverse places, especially when it come to flora or plants; 815 flowering plants, 80 native ferns, over 700 mosses and liverworts, 3,500 fungi, more than 1,000 lichens and 1,400 algae. There have been 425 bird species that have been recorded in Ireland and about half of those species actually breed there. There are 32 terrestrial mammals, 10 bat species, 2 seal species and approximately 24 whales and dolphins. Ireland's coastline has exceptional biodiversity and geological diversity.

All of these factors (plus more) all play a role in my career. I think it is extremely important to explore and learn about many different ecosystems and the unique processes that drive each respected region, especially during my undergrad when I do not yet have to specialize. Each ecosystem contains flora and fauna species that play a role in maintaining a "balance" that contributes to a healthy ecosystem. I have been exposed to North American (specifically Texas and Colorado) biodiversity and I would now like to travel and explore a region that is completely different from what I am used to and a great way to accomplish that is by finishing my undergraduate education in Ireland! By helping me go to Ireland, this fundraiser will allow me to advance my knowledge of global biodiversity.

Going to Ireland will force me out of my comfort zone by studying an area that is completely new to me. Exploring a new country with new concepts, culture, species, and environmental processes that vary dramatically from what I am used to will help me broaden my range of knowledge and help me stand out in an extremely competitive field.

Thank you for your help! (:

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