Author: Austin Sharp | Major: Animal Science | Semester: Spring 2025
Few places on Earth can match Ecuador’s breathtaking biodiversity, cultural richness, and scientific significance. For students of animal science such as myself, as well as those of other relatable studies, a study abroad experience there is more than a trip—it’s a living laboratory. From the Andean highlands of Quito and Otavalo to the volcanic ecosystems of the Galápagos Islands, Ecuador offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore animal behavior, conservation, and the deep connections between humans, animals, and the environment.
Beginning in Quito: The Gateway to the Andes – The journey begins in Quito, Ecuador’s capital city and a UNESCO World Heritage site nestled high in the Andes Mountains. At over 9,000 feet above sea level, Quito offered me a firsthand look at how altitude affects both human and animal physiology.
Ecuador’s agricultural systems are as diverse as its terrain—ranging from highland dairy farms to tropical livestock operations. In the Andean region, we visited small-scale cattle farms to learn how local farmers balance traditional practices with modern animal welfare standards.
While in Quito, we also explored Mitad del Mundo, where the equator passes directly through. Each excursion ties back to the study of life sciences—showing how geography and environment influence biodiversity at every level.
Cultural Connections in Otavalo – Just a few hours north lie Otavalo, a vibrant town famous for its indigenous culture and sprawling artisan market. Otavalo provided a chance to understand the social and economic roles animals play in rural communities.
Visits to local villages highlight how livestock such as llamas, alpacas, and guinea pigs contribute to food security, clothing production, and traditional ceremonies.
Beyond academics, the combination of cultural understanding and animal science gave me a more holistic view of how humans and animals coexist in balance with nature.
Journey to the Galápagos: Nature’s Living Laboratory – No study abroad in Ecuador would be complete without venturing to the Galápagos Islands, one of the world’s most iconic destinations for evolutionary biology. Lying 600 miles off Ecuador’s coast, this volcanic archipelago inspired Charles Darwin’s groundbreaking theories on natural selection—and continues to inspire scientists today.
The Galápagos are a paradise for animal science students. Each island—Santa Cruz, Isabela, San Cristóbal, Floreana, and others—hosts unique species and ecosystems that evolved in isolation. We worked alongside park rangers and researchers to observe endemic wildlife such as giant tortoises, marine iguanas, blue-footed boobies, and Galápagos penguins.
Fieldwork included monitoring animal populations, studying feeding behaviors, and learning conservation techniques used to protect fragile ecosystems. On Santa Cruz Island, we visited the Charles Darwin Research Station, where scientists breed and reintroduce endangered tortoises. On Isabela, we trekked up to the lava fields and observed the mystic volcanic landscapes that shape local habitats. Meanwhile, San Cristóbal offered insight into marine conservation efforts and the impact of tourism on wildlife.
The Galápagos’ isolation and pristine environments make them an ideal site for studying ecological balance and human responsibility. Discussions often center on the challenges of protecting biodiversity amid global environmental change—a critical topic for future veterinarians, animal scientists, and conservationists.
Connecting Science, Culture, and Conservation – Throughout the program, we witnessed firsthand how science, culture, and conservation intertwine. Ecuador’s unique geography—stretching from coastal plains to Andean peaks and remote islands—mirrors the complexity of global environmental systems. By engaging directly with farmers, scientists, and conservationists, the group gained practical insight into animal health, ecosystem management, and ethical research.
Moreover, this study abroad fostered a deep appreciation for cultural diversity. Learning from indigenous and local communities broadens mine and my peers’ perspectives on sustainability and animal care. They come to understand that solutions to global issues—whether animal welfare or environmental preservation—depend on respecting both scientific evidence and traditional knowledge.
Reflections Beyond the Classroom –Beyond its academic value, studying abroad in Ecuador and the Galápagos is a journey of personal growth. From my own experience, I feel that students often return with new confidence, adaptability, and a renewed passion for their field. The experience challenges them to think critically about humanity’s relationship with the natural world and the role of animal science in creating a sustainable future.
From the bustling streets of Quito to the tranquil highlands of Otavalo and the untamed beauty of the Galápagos, Ecuador offered lessons that extend far beyond textbooks. Each encounter—whether with a farmer, a finch, or a fellow traveler—reminded us that science is not just about studying life but about living it fully.