Reflections on Our Journey: Concluding Thoughts and Final Report

I am writing this concluding post to share a few thoughts as well as our final report Dr. Lenin prepared for us. It is not a farewell to this beautiful country, but rather a beginning of our learning journey. I still have more questions to ask and more things to learn even after leaving the country. I haven’t learned everything; in fact, it has left me with more questions and a desire to explore further.

Throughout our research, you have witnessed our study on marine mammals, specifically bottlenose dolphins. It is like entering a whole new world. Their society is incredibly complex, and scientists are determined to unravel their secrets. It was a privilege to observe these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat at Golfo Dulce in Costa Rica. We are grateful to Dr. Lenin Enrique Oviedo Correa for sharing his research with us and allowing us to be part of his team for eight days. We hope that our contributions have made a positive impact on his research. Many thanks to you, Dr. Lenin. I hope your science will inform policymakers to make informed decisions. 

Meeting the amazing people and immersing ourselves in their Costa Rican culture is an experience I will never forget. Their hospitality reminded me of my own Middle Eastern culture, which emphasizes generosity and welcoming others. I am sincerely grateful to David, our host, and his extended family for embracing us as part of their own family.

Final Report

I would also like to express my gratitude to the National Marine Sanctuary Foundation for awarding us the 2023 DEIA Ocean Exploration Grant. Without their financial support, this experience for our students and educators would not have been possible. We are grateful!

This is not the end of our “expeditionary learning” in Costa Rica. I plan to return many more times to explore this incredibly biodiverse country. There is so much more to see, feel, learn, and experience in this magical place.

I hope to continue sharing our journey of “expeditionary learning” with you. Stay connected because I’m heading to Uruguay.