Exploring the Galápagos

This summer, Eleanor W. ’27 had the opportunity for a 14-day study abroad trip to the Galápagos Islands. Led by Woodberry Forest School biology teacher Mr. Mills, the program brought together eight Woodberry students and four girls from various schools, including Eleanor.

The journey began in the cloud forest, where the group immersed themselves in the region’s unique biodiversity before continuing to other parts of Ecuador. From there, they boarded a flight to the Galápagos Islands, where the real adventure began.

For seven days, Eleanor and her peers lived aboard a yacht, traveling between the islands’ diverse ecosystems. Each evening, the group gathered to read about the places they would visit next, engaging in discussions that deepened their understanding of the landscapes, species, and conservation efforts they were encountering firsthand.

In addition to the daily excursions, students contributed to a group blog chronicling the experience. Each participant was responsible for writing a post, offering their reflections and insights from the day’s adventures.

Eleanor’s trip combined learning, exploration, and collaboration, an unforgettable opportunity to study science in action and connect with peers who share her curiosity about the natural world.