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Maine

Island Ecology
see info below

Program Details

DATES
July 19-July 25, 2026

7DAYS

SERVICE HOURS
40
TUITION
$3190 (Plus airfare)

*SEE DETAILS

AVAILABILITY
Available

Alongside our partner, Hurricane Island Center for Science & Leadership, you will learn about marine ecology, sustainable fishing practices, and ocean conservation while living on a coastal island in Maine.

PROGRAM OVERVIEW

This program will take you to Hurricane Island, Maine. While on the island, you will study endangered right whales, track seaweed patterns, and investigate invasive crab species, thinking critically about the scientific methods you use and learning how to identify bias in research.

You will spend your time both in the lab analyzing water samples and out in the field collecting oceanographic data, gaining hands-on experience in data collection, analysis, and scientific research.

When not engaged in research, you will participate in team-building activities, have the chance to go rock climbing, and enjoy free time to explore the island. You will also learn how to live “off-grid” and become familiar with sustainable practices on the island, such as conserving water and minimizing food waste.

Through labs, excursions, and community living, you will explore your strengths as a leader and learn how to leverage science as a tool for social change. You can expect to leave the island with a deeper understanding of ocean conservation and a strengthened connection to the natural world.

*Please note that programs are subject to change based on the health and safety of participants and our partners.

PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS

Investigating marine debris from microplastics to large-scale shoreline cleanups.

Collecting oceanographic data both onshore and on the water.

Hauling lobster traps and learning about the most significant economic industry in Maine.

Course Elements

1 is the least rigorous, 5 is the most rigorous

5
LEARNING SERVICE
You will learn about marine ecology, sustainable fishing practices, and ocean conservation
5
CURRICULUM
Prior to your travels, you will complete an online curriculum to gain background knowledge for your experience. While traveling, you will learn through engaging articles, cultural experiences, and group reflections.
3
TREKKING
While on the island, you will be walking to all activities in addition to taking a few short (2-3 miles) hikes.
3
LIVING CONDITIONS
You will be staying in rustic cabins powered by solar energy. The cabins have warm water showers and composting toilets.
2
ON THE MOVE
You will be based on Hurricane Island for the duration of your program.
3
REMOTENESS
You will be staying on a 125-acre island located 10 miles southeast of Rockland, Maine.

Itinerary

Day 1

Arrival and program orientation.

Day 2

Morning hike. Gulf of Maine lesson. Tidal pool research. Leadership ropes course.

Day 3

Gardening and sustainable food production on the island. Scallop dissection.

Day 4

Lobstering. Rock climbing activity. Plankton lab.

Day 5

Introduction to research methods. Field research on the island.

Day 6

Marine debris lab. Seaweed collection. Sustainability presentation.

Day 7

Depart for home.

NOTE

Itineraries are subject to change based on the health and safety of participants and our partners.

Maine : In Three Phases

1

PRE-TRAVEL CURRICULUM

Prior to your departure, you will be guided by your course instructors through a series of interactive, online lessons designed to help you engage with other members of your group while gaining important context for your experience.

2

FIELD STUDY

The majority of the days at each site are spent learning from our local partners and serving alongside them shoulder-to-shoulder. You will learn through service and experiences designed to help you understand the local context, culture, and history.

3

LIFELONG NETWORK

Ethical leadership is a lifelong journey. After your experience, you will become a part of the Shoulder-to-Shoulder network. This network of past alumni and partners is designed to inspire and support your journey in ethical leadership.

Travel Journal

During the travel phase of each SStS course, you will spend time reflecting and processing your experience. This is a new program, so there are currently no posts.

Important Details

TUITION

Tuition (students from partner schools): $3090
Tuition (students from non-partner schools): $3190

*Students attending a partner school receive a tuition discount. Click HERE to see partner schools. Please note that tuition does not include airfare.

AIRFARE

Students are responsible for booking their own flights to meet the group in Portland, Maine. Once enrolled, our admissions team will assist you in choosing the correct arrival and departure times.

FINANCIAL AID

SStS is in search of curious, compassionate, globally-minded students from all backgrounds. We will do everything possible financially to support students who require assistance. If you would like to be considered for financial assistance, please indicate this on the application.  Resources are limited and tend to be less than 50% of tuition.

TERMS & CONDITIONS

For a full description of our Terms and Conditions, please CLICK HERE.

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