Save the Climate and BISC-499!
By: Sophia Pei ‘22
Stressed out because you aren’t doing anything productive this summer? Want to study abroad in China? Want to do research on climate change and its impact on the ocean? Check out USC’s Problems Without Passports course BISC-499: Our Future Changing Ocean. Due to a recent last-minute student dropout, we need at least one more student for this course to continue. As someone who is really passionate about environmental conservation, I would really love for this course to continue. If you’re interested please keep reading!
What is it?
BISC-499 is a Problems Without Passports class that will be investigating the impact on climate change on the oceans. It is a research-based class so not only will you learn the basics of marine biology, climate change, and oceanography, but you will also participate in research at the world-renowned Xiamen University College of Ocean and Earth Sciences.
When?
The course runs from July 8th to August 1st during the summer 2019 semester. It’s considered a summer class and will run for three weeks.
Where?
This PWP will be hosted at Xiamen University in Fujian in the People’s Republic of China. Xiamen is a coastal port city known for its seafood and tree-lined beaches. We will be staying in dorms at XMU which is being provided along with a meal plan for free by our host university! In addition to spending time at the university we will be making weekend trips to the famous Piano Island off the coast of Xiamen, hiking in the Wuyi mountains, and embarking on a research cruise.
Why does it matter?
The oceans are Earth’s biggest ecosystem and are essential for life on Earth: over half the oxygen we breathe every day come from photosynthetic marine microorganisms. Unfortunately, despite all the resources the ocean provide, anthropogenic climate change is causing detrimental changes in the marine ecosystem leading to ocean acidification, eutrophication, and rising ocean levels. It is essential that we understand the impact of climate change on the ocean so we can find innovative solutions and prevent Earth’s most valuable research from being destroyed!
Why should I go?
As mentioned, your work will contribute to ameliorating the climate and improving marine ecosystems. Furthermore, this is a great opportunity to study abroad and get research experience. Finally, the trip will be memorable for years to come and may even by the highlight of your undergraduate experience.
What prerequisites are there?
None! Fundamental biology and math skills are recommended but not required. Regardless of whether you’re a business, design, or environmental engineering major, there’s are no major requirements.
How much will it cost?
Generously, all living costs will be covered by Xiamen University. You would only need to pay for airfare, a Chinese visa, international insurance and USC tuition (summer rates for a 4 unit class). Excluding tuition, the costs are about $1100 (~$900 for plane ticket, $140 for visa, $97 for international insurance)! Our goal is to minimize the cost for students by providing free housing, hotels, and food while we are in China. Furthermore, to offset tuition fees, you can apply for exceptional funding to cover up to 8 units as well as use funding from SURF or Rose Hills.
What else will we do?
Aside from engaging in cutting edge research with faculty at Xiamen University, we will have the opportunity to explore Xiamen and embark on a research cruise. Check out the syllabus for a full schedule. After classes, you’re free to explore Xiamen and see all it has to
Do I need to know Chinese?
No! All courses will be taught in English its a great opportunity to learn some Mandarin (it’s the most commonly spoken language in the world).
Who will teach the course?
David Hutchins who is a profession at USC for biological sciences. He does really fascinating research on marine phytoplankton, carbon and nutrient cycling, and is currently investigating the role of iron in algal blooms. I’ve had the pleasure of having him as my BISC 121 professor as well as the opportunity to do research in his lab.
What if I have other questions?
Feel free to check out https://dornsifecms.usc.edu/bisc-499/ and the course syllabus and reach out to Dr. Hutchins at dahutch@usc.edu . You’re also welcome to contact me at sophiakp@usc.edu
How do I register?
Please contact Dr. Hutchins at dahutch@usc.edu
Personal thoughts
This is honestly a wonderful opportunity for anyone interested in learning more about human impact on the biosphere as well as get first-hand research opportunities. Personally, I’m very excited to visit China for the first time without my family as well as be able to expand my experience in climate change research. I’m super excited to go on this trip and I sincerely hope I can make this happen. As an introvert, I’m looking forward to the small cohort and getting to know everyone who will be embarking on this journey with me. In order for this course to continue this summer we need at least one more student to register. I would like to implore you to share this with your friends so we can continue with this class this summer.
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