ABOUT THE PROGRAM

Audubon Canyon Ranch's Conservation Science Intensive brings together selected participants for a 5-day virtual conservation program. It is designed to inspire young people 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.

The CSI program centers the feminine, which includes those who are socialized as, or identify with, the terms girl/young women, as well as those who transcend our inherited gender binaries. We are committed to creating safe, inclusive, and accessible spaces for all participants.
 
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:
Monday June 27 - Friday July 1, 2022
(9am to 4pm PST each day)

WHO CAN APPLY

Up to fifteen young women will be selected to participate in the program. 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 $50 non-refundable fee; to be paid upon acceptance to the program. Cost should not be a deterrent for participation; waivers will be granted to anyone 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 two parts:

1. WRITTEN APPLICATION: The completion of this participant application. Submitted by 5 PM PST Friday, February 25, 2021.

2. 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 45-MINUTE INFORMAL GROUP ZOOM INTERVIEW. Interviews will be held on March 12 and 19. In this interview, we will ask questions so that we can get to know you better and understand your interest in joining the CSI community. 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, 2022. To attend, applicants and their parents/guardians must submit liability and photo release waivers.