This is an innovative and interdisciplinary Honors College course that culminates with a four-week study abroad component in the Amazon rainforest of Peru. During Spring 2009, students are introduced to various aspects of the Amazon, ranging from its geological and ecological history, its colonization and exploitation by native Americans, its exploration by European "discoverers," its biodiversity, and the current challenges facing the Amazon environment and its people. Students also develop project proposals which are then implemented during the Summer 2009 field component of the course. During June-July 2009, students and faculty will spend 4 weeks in the upper Amazon of Peru, where students will have a hands-on opportunity to carry out their individual projects as well as to participate in group projects led by faculty. A student designed and led community service component will be included in the Peru field excursion. Twenty-two days of the field component will be spent at biological research stations in Peru, while an additional five days will be spent during orientation and course wrap-up in Iquitos, Peru.

By the end of the course, students will have had a broad introduction to the geological, natural, and human history of the Amazon region. They will have an understanding of the biological and climatological processes that have created and which maintain the Amazon's rich flora and fauna, and will also understand the current day issues surrounding climate change, "preservation" and "sustainable use and development" of the Amazon and its resources. Finally, students will have practical experience in designing, implementing, and presenting research projects in the area of their choice. Extensive mentoring by course faculty will occur during all phases of project design and implementation. Projects do not need to be directly related to biology and the environment, but may also delve into sociology, anthropology, international relations, art, business, medicine, geography, education and many other fields.