Why should you study with SFS?


For Yourself
What you gain from an SFS program can not be achieved by simply sitting in a classroom. Hands-on field experience, practical and transferable research skills, and cross-cultural awareness are only a few of the benefits of our programs. You will develop leadership skills, build self-confidence, and discover the vital role you can play in the larger global community. When you finish an SFS program, you will not only walk away with the education of a lifetime, you will never view the world - or yourself - the same way again.

For the Community
At SFS, we are committed to preserving the ecological health and sustainability of the communities in which we work. We take our lead from our local partners, who identify environmental issues critical to the community, and then we develop research plans to address them. Through our ongoing research efforts, we provide high-quality results and recommendations that promote the sustainable use of natural resources upon which these communities depend. The personal relationships students develop with members of the local community put a human face on the environmental problems they are studying. For many students, these friendships are the most rewarding part of their SFS experience.

For the Environment
SFS believes that everyone has a valuable role to play in helping to protect our environment for future generations of plant, animal and human life on earth. Yet tackling big problems can be daunting, and you might question your ability to make a difference. As an SFS student, you won't just read about an environmental problem - you will be part of an international research team working to solve it. Whether you are replanting critically fragmented rainforests in Australia, tagging endangered sea turtles in Mexico, or helping Costa Rican farmers transition to organic agriculture, you will be challenged and inspired by the work you do. We believe that the future of our environment depends upon educating, inspiring and activating people, businesses and government leaders to be stewards of the environment. Your work will make a real difference in a local community and make a positive contribution toward the sustainable use of the world's natural resources.