In new study abroad program, UWM students dive into hands-on research in Bacalar, Mexico

Through a new UWM study abroad program, environmental engineering undergraduate Rachel Clark conducted hydrology mapping for six weeks this spring in Mexico’s Yucatan peninsula.

Clark was one of six students from UWM and UW–Whitewater to participate in field research at Laguna Bacalar International Research Station on the campus of CREN Normal College in Bacalar Mexico. Laguna Bacalar is Mexico’s second largest freshwater lake and a one-of-a-kind ecosystem.

“I felt so incredibly lucky to have this experience and collaborate with such knowledgeable and experienced faculty and local agency leaders,” Clark says. “I was able to practice my Spanish and be in a wonderful culture in an incredibly unique ecosystem.” Read more.

Applications open for Fall 2022 semester   

The program to the Yucatan Peninsula is offered through UWM’s Freshwater Sciences and is open to undergraduates and graduates in diverse degree programs. It was established with support from the National Science Foundation’s International Research Experience for Students (IRES) Program.

Applications for the Fall 2022 semester are now open; closes Aug. 26.