DANTAisms

Grace Carter, Anthropology, San Diego State University

I loved every bit of my time taking the Methods of Primate Behavior and Conservation DANTA
course this summer. The amount of knowledge and insight learned through this experience will
be treasured forever. Every part of Costa Rica was amazing, but nothing beats the magic of the
Osa where we learned the course materials. The food was amazing, the monkeys were a
delight, and every activity we did was so much fun. Not only was I surrounded by beautiful
wildlife, but a group full of amazing people as well. Everyone cared about each other and
shared a passion for wildlife and conservation. I learned so much from the instructors but
my peers as well. It was so awesome to be around people who are just as excited as me to be
there. I remember even when there would be a cool bug, everyone would get so excited and run
over to go see it. I’m pretty sure everyone had a smile on their face 90% of the time.
The entire experience was better than I could have ever imagined. I left with much more
knowledge of working in the field, primates, and conservation, but also with a sense of hope in
knowing a place like that exists.