Natelle Vantol '26 Studies Environmental Science in Thailand on the ISDSU Program in Summer 2026 - Natelle writes, "The International Sustainability Development Studies Institute (ISDSI) supports student-led research and provides a unique opportunity in engaging with local communities and international professionals. I completed the Elephants and Conservation Ecology course which dove into the complexity of land and wildlife conservation while focusing on human-elephant conflict within Thailand and Laos. Through this program I conducted independent field research on the impacts that wild and captive elephants have on biodiversity. This research included observations of mycelium networks, sampling growth within dung, and dung beetle codependency. I had discussions with park patrollers regarding bird and insect species impact with the decomposition process of dung. For any students interested in research and exploring new opportunities, I would highly recommend ISDSI. Not only was I able to pursue topics that interested me, but I gained valuable experience for further studies and acquired several professional connections that have inspired future pathways. This opportunity was fundamental to my undergraduate education as it provided a nontraditional learning opportunity that simulates future research in biology."

Photo: Natelle discusses her research proposal with Janine Brown, renowned elephant researcher who heads the Endocrinology Lab at the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, in Thailand.