Graduate Certificate in Birding for Transformation
Published on June 28, 2025
About this Podcast
HOST: Welcome to our podcast, today we're excited to have Dr. Erika Solano, an expert in ornithology and the course coordinator for the Graduate Certificate in Birding for Transformation. Dr. Solano, can you tell us about your personal experiences that led you to create this unique course? GUEST: Absolutely, I've always been passionate about birds and their critical role in ecosystems. This course combines my love for avian life with career development opportunities in conservation and ecotourism. HOST: That's fascinating. How does this program align with current trends in the industry, especially considering the growing demand for eco-friendly tourism? GUEST: Birding is a growing segment of ecotourism worldwide. Our course not only teaches identification skills but also emphasizes the importance of sustainable practices and responsible tourism to protect these fragile habitats. HOST: And what challenges have you encountered while designing or teaching this program? GUEST: One challenge is keeping up with the rapid pace of environmental changes affecting bird populations. We constantly update our curriculum to reflect new research findings and conservation strategies. HOST: That must be quite challenging indeed. Looking towards the future, where do you see the field of birding and its impact on career opportunities and environmental conservation? GUEST: I believe birding will continue to gain popularity as people seek meaningful connections with nature. As a result, there will be increasing demand for professionals who can effectively communicate the importance of bird conservation and promote sustainable practices in the industry. HOST: Well said, Dr. Solano. Thank you so much for joining us today and providing such insightful information about the Graduate Certificate in Birding for Transformation. We're sure our listeners have gained a deeper appreciation for this unique course offering. GUEST: Thank you for having me. It's been a pleasure sharing my experiences and thoughts on this exciting field.
