Oceans and You

Are you a high school student? Are you passionate about marine science, sustainability, field research, or zoology?

Join the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium for a one-of-a-kind experience where you will get an exclusive look at marine conservation efforts at the Forfar Field Station on Andros Island, Bahamas!

Before the field study, you'll meet with Zoo staff to learn about marine science and conservation careers.
While at Forfar, you'll have the chance to snorkel, explore tide pools, hike through nature, and more!

This program is generously supported by Battelle.

Bahamas Field Study

Trip Dates: June 20-27, 2026

Cost: $3500 per person (scholarships are available)

The Oceans and You: Bahamas Field Study is designed for high school students interested in marine science. This course will focus on human impact on the environment.

We will explore how climate change, plastics, and invasive species affect the Bahamas and discover how we can each make a difference for wildlife and wild places at home and internationally.

Download 2026 Brochure

Course Topics

Ocean Ecology

Andros Island is located near the third-largest fringing barrier reef and the Tongue of the Ocean - a deep, mile-long abyss teeming with vibrant marine life. During this field study, students will explore these extraordinary marine habitats and learn how to protect the animals that call them home.

Human Impact on the Ocean

Students will gain an understanding of climate change and the harmful effects of plastic pollution on the Bahamas' marine environments. They will also explore practical steps they can take to make a difference and help preserve these vital ecosystems.

Conservation Careers

Students will have the opportunity to discover a variety of conservation and sustainability careers by learning from experts at the Columbus Zoo and the International Field Studies teams.

Forfar Field Station

Forfar Field Station is a rustic former dive resort named after its founder and builder, Archie Forfar.

Nestled in a beachfront coconut grove on Andros Island, Forfar provides rustic cabin-style lodging. Each cabin has 3-4 sets of bunk beds, electricity, fans, a private bathroom with hot water, and a shower.

The Forfar Lodge houses the Dining Hall, Classroom, and open living areas.

Learn More about Forfar Field Station

additional information

If you have other questions, our contact information is listed below.

Meet the Columbus Zoo Field Study Leaders

Eli de Nijs, Senior Educator

Eli de Nijs has been part of the Columbus Zoo’s Conservation Education department since 2016 and is passionate about working with teens. Before starting full-time at the Zoo, Eli swam collegiately, taught English at various grade levels, and coached swimming and track. While at the Zoo, Eli stays busy working with the Teen Eco Summit and Columbus City Schools. Eli full-heartedly believes that today’s teens will change the world and works to help them feel empowered to do so.

Carrie Hauck, Manager of Youth and Family Programming

Carrie Hauck has been an educator at the Columbus Zoo for 20 years. Currently, she is Manager of Youth and Family Programming, overseeing early childhood programming, camps, overnights, and career exploration. She first visited Forfar in the summer of her high school junior year and found it transformative! It helped her see that her passion for the outdoors and love of science could be a career! This will be Carrie’s second time leading a Zoo teen trip. Her biggest hope is exposing your child to conservation efforts, careers, sustainability, and marine life!

What to Expect

We plan to spend three days on land and three days on the water (weather permitting).

Here's a sample schedule!

7am	Lodge Opens
7:55am	Duty cabin reports to dining room to serve breakfast.
8am	Conch shells blow signals breakfast.
8:45am	Load up! Duty cabin loads lunch.
9am	Departure for a full day on boat or van.
12pm	Lunch in the field.
4pm	Return to Forfar. Duty cabin unloads lunch.
5:55pm	Duty cabin reports for dinner-serving duties.
6pm	Conch shell blow signals dinner.
7pm	Evening presentation in classroom.
10pm	Lodge closes. Quiet time commences until 7am.