Hello CSU Todos Santos community!
My name is Bella Conrad, and I am a recent CSU graduate in Ecosystem Science and Sustainability. Growing up, I was always spending time outside, learning as much as possible, and wanting to make a big difference. As soon as I discovered environmental science and sustainability, I knew exactly what I wanted to spend my time studying and exploring. Since then, I have tried my hardest to encourage and inspire others to live a more sustainable life, while always being supportive.
The summer after my freshman year at CSU, I had the opportunity to study abroad with the School for Field Studies in Bocas del Toro, Panama. Bocas del Toro is an archipelago, or a cluster of islands, right off the coast of Panama. While in Bocas, I learned how to do marine and terrestrial field work, counting different fish species, coral types, starfish, and even poison dart frogs! I came away from this summer wanting to help other students have access to these programs and opportunities, and to navigate any challenges. So, I became an Education Abroad peer advisor!
As a peer advisor, one of my main priorities has been demonstrating the variety of sustainable programs that CSU offers abroad. For baseline sustainability metrics, I use the United Nations Forum on Education Abroad framework. Using this framework, I have met with many program leaders to understand any on-the-ground sustainability work that could be highlighted within the country or the specific program. To communicate this better to students, I have developed educational materials for the pre-departure orientations and am also working to highlight programs in sustainability on the Education Abroad website. It is incredibly important to make student-facing, accessible materials so that they can understand how important it is to continue practicing sustainability while abroad.
In addition to this analysis of staff and faculty-led programs, I have had the opportunity to meet with the team at CSU Todos Santos and learn about the variety of sustainability initiatives. Antonio Diego, an inspirational and dedicated program coordinator focused on zero waste at CSU Todos Santos, has connected many visitors to sustainability and conservation through his many projects and extensive knowledge. These projects include extensive waste management, community education, and a partnership with Alianza Cero Basura, all working to divert 70% of on-campus waste. From improving waste sorting programs to on-campus gardening and composting, CSU Todos Santos has made impactful strides to support the students, program leaders, and even the regional school district.
Not only is Antonio’s work happening on campus, but he also often visits elementary schools and brings CSU students to high schools to participate in science communication and education. As a form of cultural heritage, gardening and composting connect communities to their natural environment and to each other. Helping regional elementary schools supports waste circularity, food security, and equitable access to many resources and knowledge. When Antonio is not working with students, he is improving sustainability programs for the future.
I hope you’ll keep following along to see how CSU Todos Santos continues to bridge international and bilingual worlds through sustainability, conservation, and passion.
—Bella Conrad