Talking Science in Costa Rica

01:090:292:H3
Lauren Adamo
T 10:20AM-1:20PM
WL 231 BUSCH

This embedded study abroad course is a 1-credit, 7-day long trip conducted during the spring break. Students will participate in a semester-long, 3-credit honors seminar that will introduce topics and themes to be addressed during the trip.

This seminar will examine the scientific and cultural knowledge about volcanic processes and how it shapes the society in Costa Rica. It will also explore and discuss the risks and benefits (i.e. topographic changes, mineral resources, agriculture, tourism, energy) of living in the shadow of so many active volcanoes. The ultimate goal is to illustrate the balance Costa Rica strikes between the advantages and disadvantages of living in a tectonically active region and to discuss how new knowledge can help inform future economic and scientific decisions.

For the study abroad component of this class, these are the things you’ll need for greater success.

  • A curious attitude.
  • An outdoorsy disposition.
  • A willingness to go with the flow and problem solve.
  • A good set of waterproofs and some broken in and sturdy hiking/walking boots.


Heads Up: Several Costa Rican attractions are above 8,000 feet (2,500 meters), high enough to trigger mild altitude sickness especially if you are acclimated to sea level. Symptoms include headache, disorientation, nausea, and irregular breathing. Gradual adjustment to higher elevations can prevent altitude sickness. If you have a heart condition, mobility issues, asthma, or other illnesses that can be triggered by altitude (for example, epilepsy), please talk to your doctor first.

APPLY HERE by December 1, 2022


About Professor Adamo

Education

  • 2016 Ph.D.
    Rutgers University, Graduate School of New Brunswick, New Brunswick, NJ
  • 2006 M.S.
    Rutgers University, Graduate School of New Brunswick, New Brunswick, NJ
  • 2004 B.S. with Honors
    Geological sciences with high honors, Rutgers University, Rutgers College, New Brunswick, NJ


Research Interests

  • Paleoceanography and Stable Isotope Stratigraphy
  • Geoscience and informal educational research
  • Drone and Photogrammetry Remote Sensing for surface and coastal processes


Professional Experience
Undergraduate Program Director- Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences, Rutgers University (2022 to present)
Director- Rutgers University Geology Museum (2021 to present)
Co-Director- Rutgers University Geology Museum (2016 to 2021)
Assistant Teaching Professor- Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences, Rutgers University (2016 to present)
Associate Director- Rutgers University Geology Museum (2009 to 2016)
Lecturer- Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences, Rutgers University (2008 to 2016)