Sophie’s Study Abroad In Colombia

Hello, Everyone! I’m Sophie Izzo. The only thing you really need to know about me is that I love nature; it is a part of me and I am a part of it. In the fall, I took my first Environmental Science course. This introductory course to ENVS covered a variety of different topics, but my biggest takeaway at the end of the semester was the importance of biodiversity. I’ve always been passionate about the environment and it’s biological systems, however my knowledge and understanding of it was surface-level. After taking this course, my eyes were opened to the real costs of human disturbances to Earth’s ecosystems, and the chain effects of biodiversity loss. It is now my life’s purpose to study deeper into what is currently happening to our beloved forests, lakes, rivers and oceans, and to use that knowledge to work with others on developing solutions. Now is the time for young adults to take part in the worldwide effort to combat climate change and prevent further destruction of ecosystems across the globe. Its high time for me to start doing my part. In May of 2020 I will be joining a small group of classmates at TC3 on a trip to Colombia. The trip is part of Tompkins Cortland’s Environmental Studies program, a program in which I have been working tirelessly. In preparation for Colombia this spring semester, I will be taking a conjoined Tropical Field Natural History class (biology) and an Anthropology class—taught by two extremely passionate and dedicated professors. Looking forward, I am beyond excited to expand my understanding of one of the world’s most diverse ecosystems by studying and experiencing it hands-on. The fee for the trip is $3,000, so I have decided to create this GoFundMe page. Friends, family, fellow tree huggers- Any donation from you would be a tremendous help! I’m lucky to have so many people who support me in all I do, and what I wish to achieve.