Advanced Studies in Environmental Solutions study conservation at San Diego Safari Park

Students completed a lab at the Safari Park employing one of the conservation methods they have been studying in class. In the lab, they had the chance to practice with the data and do the actual work of a conservation scientist.

“I loved learning about how conservation scientists get data from zoo polar bears to analyze the behaviors of wild polar bears,” said Eric Luo ’25. “It shows you that conservation is more than just lectures and summatives, but a real global effort taking place in all levels of the human experience.”

When reflecting on the field trip, students emphasized how encountering majestic cats inspired their instinct to protect animals and our environment. “Seeing a lion up close made me realize why it is so important to take care of them,” shared Stephanie Ma ’25. “It was a surreal experience. I got to contextualize how big these animals are.”

Photos by Eric Luo, Stephanie Ma, and Ms. Haleftiras.