Lindsey Cunningham’s journey to Mizzou has been one of discovery. She began her educational journey on a pre-med track at Truman State University but soon learned that wasn’t her passion. After moving to Columbia and working with AmeriCorps at school gardens and for a farming nonprofit, Cunningham fell in love with the work and found that CAFNR’s environmental sciences program fit her passion. Her journey of discovery continued this winter break when she received the opportunity to study abroad in Costa Rica.
During her week in Costa Rica, Cunningham and several other CAFNR students, led by Michael Stambaugh and Benjamin Knapp, associate professors in the School of Natural Resources, explored the many ecosystems of the country. From the La Selva Biological Station at the lowest elevation rain forest to the cloud forests to the coast, students learned about local conservation and ecological practices.
“So much of my previous understanding was based on Missouri’s ecology and conservation practices, so it was great to gain that global perspective,” said Cunningham. “But more than just the ecology, the biggest thing I took away from the experience was seeing a place where the social systems of the community are so connected with the ecology. Costa Rican people are more immediately embedded in policy related to the rainforest. Obviously, that’s part of a global conversation about rainforest conservation, but there it is such an integral part of people’s life in a way that ecological conservation isn’t in the United States.”
In addition to learning, Cunningham also made connections with industry professionals in Costa Rica that she hopes will lead to another visit in the future.
“I want to pursue a master’s in botany, and would love to study at La Selva in the future,” said Cunningham. “It was a paradise; not just ecologically but for research resources.”
Cunningham was a recipient of the Gilman Scholarship, which works to prepare U.S. students to assume significant roles in an increasingly global economy and interdependent world by funding their study abroad experience. Through the multi-essay application process, Cunningham refined her learning goals and interests for her study abroad experience, and she would encourage other students to apply.
“There are many great opportunities to do what you want to do in Missouri, and that’s really important,” Cunningham said, “but whether you choose to work at home or abroad, it’s extremely valuable to get a different perspective on how things can be done and what priorities other places have. I think sometimes the opportunity to study abroad can feel out of reach or like a huge goal, but I would encourage everyone, especially people who maybe wouldn’t even consider studying abroad, to apply for Gilman Scholars. It’s there to provide those opportunities to those who maybe otherwise wouldn’t be able to, and that’s so important.”