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Costa Rica Research Training Expedition

The Costa Rica Research Training Expedition is a beginning research experience in which students learn the foundations of inquiry-based research, including experimental design, research methods, and analysis while exploring the spectacular ecosystems of Costa Rica.

CSU STEM Pathways & Research Alliance

This program is undergoing restructuring, and is not receiving applications at this time. 

Students receive instruction in the development of research questions, fundamentals of experimental design, sampling, hypothesis testing, and the responsible conduct of research, while engaging in hands-on activities across a wide variety of habitats and landscapes. Students with little or no research experience will benefit from participating in group research activities in terrestrial agroecology. 

The Costa Rica Research Training Expedition is restricted to only CSU SPaRA participants. Travel expenses (flights, local ground transportation, lodging, and meals) will be covered for all students participating in the expedition. First and second year students are especially encouraged to apply. Read on for information on how STEM undergraduates can become CSU SPaRA participants.

Program Details

  • Program typically runs in the month of January during winter break.  
  • Total immersion in tropical biodiversity: rainforest, cloud forest, mangroves, coffee plantations
  • Selection of students is based on application questionnaire, academic transcripts, references, and interview
  • Lower division students are particularly encouraged to apply, but the program is open to all CSU-SPaRA undergraduates.

Program Leaders: John "Buck" Banks, UROC Director, CSUMB

Eligibility

Students who meet the following criteria are encouraged to apply.

  • Only CSU-SPaRA students will be eligible to participate. 
  • Students with an interest in an intensive tropical research experience or any STEM research field.
  • First & Second year students are especially encouraged to apply.

You do not have to have research experience to apply to this program. There is no minimum GPA requirement.

What are the program dates?

Future program dates are on hold until further notice. 

Is there any course credit associated with participation in this program?

There is no course credit associated with this program.

I am not a first- or second-year, or transfer student. Am I still eligible to apply for this program?

The program is particularly designed for students who are at the very beginning stages of their exploration of the research processes used in ecology. In addition, one of the goals of the NSF funded CSU-SPaRA program, which supports CSU-SPaRA participants, is to train students on the skills and techniques necessary for success in STEM careers. In particular, the CSU-SPaRA program is eager to provide this type of training to students at the start of their academic careers. However, students who are later on in their academic careers are still invited to apply.

Do I have to be a STEM major to participate in this program?

Yes, because to be eligible for the SPaRA program and the full scholarship provided to SPARA applicants, you must be a STEM major. The focus of the program is on Life Sciences research and the statistical and field-based research approaches necessary to investigate this field.

Does the application require transcripts?

The application does request transcripts.

Does the application require letters of recommendation?

As part of your application you will be asked to have two different references submit an evaluation of you and your personal and professional characteristics. Two references are required for a complete application. 

The application process will ask you to provide your references' email address. Your reference will receive an email that includes a link for them to complete their reference of you. 

How do I apply for the LSAMP scholarship if I am already an LSAMP participant?

If you are already a SPaRA participant you simply need to indicate on your application that you are a CSU-SPaRA participant by checking the appropriate box next to the question "Are you a current CSU-SPaRA student?" on the first page of the application.

How will I know what to bring? And what not to bring?

The Instructors and Facilitators for this program have many years of experience leading students on field research excursions in Costa Rica. They have used this experience and perspective to create detailed lists of exactly what to bring and what not to bring. If you are selected for this program you will very quickly receive all the information you need about how to prepare. If you still have questions you will be able to contact the instructors with any concerns or details you have.

International Air Travel: How is this arranged? Will I be flying and traveling internationally alone?

If you are feeling apprehensive about the prospect of traveling alone internationally, don't worry. If you are admitted to the Winter Research Expedition, your flight and travel arrangements will be arranged for you.

What are living accommodations like?

Living accommodations vary widely depending on what part of the country the group is in, but they are almost always communal. Expect to regularly be sharing rooms with your peers. Accommodation will vary from shared hotel rooms to open-air bunk houses.

How many students are typically selected each year to participate?

The number of participants may be up to 10.