Field Research in South Africa!
Donation protected
If you are reading this, you most likely know that I have dedicated my life to educational pursuits, especially in science. You may not know that I have dedicated the last seven years to my research endeavors, which has lead me to studying sociality and its influences on behavior in non-human primates (and a Master's degree in Animal Behavior). I've recently decided to combine my research interests with a little stranger passion of mine: pathogens and epidemiology...trust me, its fascinating stuff, and I can and will happily tell you about the horrific pathogens that have plagued history (See what I did there?).
My journey has lead to a, perhaps, once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to study baboon behavior and health in South Africa for three months . I wish these words could justly express my excitement to be a research assistant on a project that not only involves a group of animals that I have devoted years to and would love to continue working with, but also one that aligns with my unique research interests. This work will be immeasurable in regards to the experiences and knowledge gained and the doors that will be opened.
However, despite all the amazing parts of this work, I am responsible for my travel and living expenses while away. I am also responsible for bringing some field supplies, like sturdy boots, binoculars, a stopwatch, a laptop, etc. While I have gathered some supplies and savings in preparation for this line of work, the cost is...overwhelming. So, I thought I would reach out to my family, friends, and community--to all those who have asked "What are your plans? Where to next?" and "So, you work with monkeys?!"--and briefly explain my goals and, humbly, ask for help. Any donation, no matter the size, will mean the world to me. I want this so badly that as I type this message I can feel my heart pounding and the tears stringing the back of my eyes; I need to do this (Sorry, mama bear). I promise to make you proud and to pass along the most beautiful photos and stories of animals and lands far away.
For all of those who have believed in and supported my dreams so far and continue to do so, I already cannot thank you enough. Your girl is just getting started. Thank you.
Also, thank you to the project website for the incredible baboon photo (http://steffenfoerster.com/research-projects).
My journey has lead to a, perhaps, once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to study baboon behavior and health in South Africa for three months . I wish these words could justly express my excitement to be a research assistant on a project that not only involves a group of animals that I have devoted years to and would love to continue working with, but also one that aligns with my unique research interests. This work will be immeasurable in regards to the experiences and knowledge gained and the doors that will be opened.
However, despite all the amazing parts of this work, I am responsible for my travel and living expenses while away. I am also responsible for bringing some field supplies, like sturdy boots, binoculars, a stopwatch, a laptop, etc. While I have gathered some supplies and savings in preparation for this line of work, the cost is...overwhelming. So, I thought I would reach out to my family, friends, and community--to all those who have asked "What are your plans? Where to next?" and "So, you work with monkeys?!"--and briefly explain my goals and, humbly, ask for help. Any donation, no matter the size, will mean the world to me. I want this so badly that as I type this message I can feel my heart pounding and the tears stringing the back of my eyes; I need to do this (Sorry, mama bear). I promise to make you proud and to pass along the most beautiful photos and stories of animals and lands far away.
For all of those who have believed in and supported my dreams so far and continue to do so, I already cannot thank you enough. Your girl is just getting started. Thank you.
Also, thank you to the project website for the incredible baboon photo (http://steffenfoerster.com/research-projects).
Organizer
Sara Faiad
Organizer
Lewisburg, PA
