From May 14-18, Deree students had the unique opportunity to participate in the first ever-interdepartmental academic weeklong workshop and field trip jointly held at the ACG Aghia Paraskevi campus and the Yalova Lagoon in Messinia.
Environmental Studies student, Nikos Kotsiopoulos, says that “when I saw the title ‘The Yalova Ecosystem Experience’, I thought that it was misleading; in my mind I was expecting to apply the field work techniques that I have learned. Little did I know that the term ‘experience’ was entirely accurate; not only did I have the opportunity to practice these techniques but also to gain several, very strong experiences. All in all, this field trip was an experience that I will cherish for years to come and look forward to repeating it.”
This five-day workshop was an immersive and experiential learning experience aimed at enhancing education for sustainability. Biology, environmental science, sociology and management came together in order for the participants to holistically understand and appreciate what we call an ecosystem. Participants gained hands-on experience by engaging in lab and field activities while simultaneously enjoying every aspect of this opportunity.
President of the Environmental Studies Society, Pinelopi Savvidou, says that “it was a brand-new experience for me. I overcame myself and I tried new activities. I admired how all students got to cooperate and help each other in difficult times. Τhe support we received from our professors and the way they guided us through this novel field trip were incredible.”
The Yalova Ecosystem Experience was organized by the ACG Center of Excellence for Sustainability – Office of Public Affairs and the Navarino Environmental Observatory (NEO), which is a synergy between the University of Stockholm, the Academy of Athens and Costa Navarino. The workshop and field trip were also organized in collaboration with the School of Liberal Arts and Sciences and the Environmental Studies Major.
