ABOUT THE PROGRAM

Audubon Canyon Ranch's Conservation Science Intensive brings together selected participants for a summer adventure and educational experience. This summer, two 5-day virtual programs will be held. They are designed to inspire young women to develop a stronger connection to nature while learning about and practicing land conservation and stewardship. It will deepen their appreciation of the complexity and interconnectedness of natural systems. This experiential program will challenge participants, mentally and emotionally as they work with and learn from highly-skilled conservation biologists, ecologists, and educators.
 
This virtual program is similar to a college-level seminar-style class. It is best suited for individuals with a budding interest in conservation science and a desire to think deeply, reflect internally, and discuss collaboratively.

Daily programming will include, group discussions, independent study, team building activities, and more. During the week participants explore topics including: natural history, conservation, stewardship, leadership, nature journal techniques, equity in science, and female models of collaboration and leadership.

PROGRAM DATES:
July 12 - 16
July 19 - 23
Please indicate your available for one or both of the weeks in the form below.

WHO CAN APPLY

Twenty-four young women will be selected to participate in the program, twelve for each week. We welcome applicants from a variety of socioeconomic and cultural backgrounds, understanding that a diversity of life experiences in the group significantly enhances the experience of all participants. Demonstrated academic success is less important than a keen desire to participate and a clear sense of how the program will benefit the individual.

All applicants must be going into their junior or senior year in the fall of 2022. Applicants must live within the following time zones: Pacific, Mountain, Central, Eastern US.

There is a $30 non-refundable fee; to be paid upon acceptance to the program. Cost should not be a deterrent for participation; waivers will be granted to those for whom payment is a hardship. CSI is a program of Audubon Canyon Ranch, a nonprofit organization whose programs are made possible thanks to donations from generous individuals, foundations and businesses.

APPLICATION PROCESS

The application process consists of three parts:

1. WRITTEN APPLICATION: The completion of this participant application. Submitted by 5 PM PT Friday, February 25, 2022.

2. ONE COMMUNITY RECOMMENDATION:  All applicants must request a community leader or teacher (who is not a relative) to submit a recommendation by 5:00 p.m. PT, Friday February 25, 2025, using this recommendation form link:

3. INTERVIEW: Applicants will be notified by March 4, 2022 if they have been selected to interview as a candidate for the program and will receive an invitation to sign up for a 30-MINUTE INFORMAL PHONE INTERVIEW. In this interview, we will ask questions so that we can get to know you better and understand how you would fit into the Conservation Science Intensive community. Interviews will be held on March 12 and 19. At this time, we are unable to notify applicants who have not been selected for the interview process.

ACCEPTANCE

Interviewed applicants will be notified of their acceptance before March 24, 2021. To attend, applicants and their parents/guardians must submit liability and photo release waivers.