Stacy, a biology major in The Burnett Honors College participated in the 2008 President’s Scholars Program as one of eight scholarship recipients to travel to St. Kitts and Nevis.
The Burnett Honors College President’s Scholars Program was initiated by UCF President John Hitt. The program provides students who have the potential to apply for prestigious scholarships the global perspectives necessary to compete for such awards.
Before the students embarked on their study abroad, they spent three weeks researching the history, politics, economics, culture and the environment of the country. Once they arrived on the island, the students along with the Assistant Dean of the college, Dr. Martin Dupuis, put their research to use. “By studying various aspects of the country before arrival, students were able to appreciate a new culture, experience the rich biodiversity of the Caribbean, and understand the environmental challenges faced in the region,” said Dupuis.
The journey to St. Kitts and Nevis was of special significance to Stacy. She admits that, “after speaking to many vet school students on the island and participating in the sea-turtle program with Ross Vet School, I am certain now that I want to pursue a career involving wildlife. This trip affected me in many ways, and I feel that it has made me a more mature and knowledgeable individual.”