The purpose of the program is to create a dynamic and collaborative educational experience that brings together William & Mary (WM) undergraduates and Incheon National University (INU) undergraduates for a shared exploration of environmental DNA (eDNA) in the context of global marine biodiversity. By fostering cross-cultural interactions and interdisciplinary learning, the program aims to achieve global learning outcomes. Students from both institutions will engage in a comprehensive curriculum that combines theoretical knowledge with hands-on experiences, including field excursions and lab activities. The collaborative nature of the program encourages the exchange of diverse perspectives, fostering a deeper understanding of how cultural and societal differences influence scientific research. Through this partnership, the program seeks to cultivate a sense of global citizenship, enabling students to connect with peers from different cultural backgrounds, conduct global biodiversity research, and reflect on their roles in a global context. The overarching purpose is to provide a transformative educational experience that goes beyond traditional classroom boundaries, preparing students to navigate the complexities of global environmental challenges collaboratively.
The program will incorporate a variety of excursions and extra-curricular events designed to complement the academic program. Field excursions to diverse coastal ecosystems in Incheon will provide hands-on opportunities for students to apply environmental DNA (eDNA) sampling techniques, reinforcing theoretical knowledge gained in the classroom. Visits to local research laboratories will offer insights into cutting-edge marine biology and eDNA research, connecting academic concepts with real-world practices. Cultural excursions, such as guided tours of Incheon and interactions with the local community, will enhance cross-cultural understanding and contribute to the broader global learning outcomes. A group project using metabarcoding analysis will provide practical skills and align with the program's academic goals. These excursions and events aim to create a holistic learning experience, integrating classroom instruction with practical applications, cultural immersion, and skill development, ultimately enriching the academic program for all participants.
About W&M Winter Programs:
W&M Winter programs are led by W&M faculty and students will received W&M credits. All courses must be taken for a grade, which will be calculated into their GPA. Students will participate in a 1 credit pre-course that will take place from mid-October through just before exams. This course is required for participation in the program. Students will automatically receive COLL300 for courses taken abroad.
Course Information:
INTR 299: W&M Winter Incheon Pre-Course (1 credit)
Required Text: TBD
MSCI 498: Special Topics in Marine Science (Introduction to Environmental DNA: Exploring Biodiversity of Marine Life in Costal Ecosystems) (3 credits)
Required Texts: TBD
Prerequisite: none
W&M Faculty:
Bongkeun Song, PhD (songb@vims.edu)
Virginia Institute of Marine Science
Program Dates:
Arrival: January 4, 2025
Departure: January 19, 2025
*please keep in mind arrival dates will require a departure from the US earlier than this date.
Important Dates:
Application Due ($75): September 9, 2024
Deposit Due ($700): October 4, 2024
Balance Due: November 1, 2024
*A $75 application fee applies, to be paid to GEO Marketplace. Please note that the deposit fees are non-refundable.
Application fee information:
The application fee ($75) is due by the deadline and should be paid online at the
GEO Marketplace Store. Whoever is making the payment will need student 93#, email, and phone number. The application fee is refundable in the event that you are not accepted into the program or the program is canceled by W&M.
Program Fees:
Program Cost: $4,500
Includes: Excursions, accommodations, in country transportation, some meals, course fees, international health insurance.
Does not include: Flights, personal expenses, some meals, US transportation, required texts.
For more information on the breakdown of program fees please visit our budget sheet.
Funding:
Scholarship for this program is available. Please apply to the
Reves Winter Scholarship by the September 9 deadline.
Please open a scholarship application AFTER opening a program application to avoid technical difficulties
Funding will be awarded based on financial need as determined by the Office of Financial Aid.
Eligibility:
- Students must be an active W&M undergraduate student in good standing, not on academic or disciplinary probation during time abroad, and eligible to take classes at the W&M Williamsburg campus to study abroad.
- Students currently on-campus must successfully complete 1 credit fall course.
- For more information about eligibility, please visit our Policies that Affect You page.
Questions:
Please contact Lisa Roney, Special Programs Advisor (lmroney@wm.edu)
Handbooks:
W&M Winter Program Handbook 2024
