Most rainforest research is done in the highlands and lowlands, but the Soltis Center is uniquely situated in the midzone. For the past 15 years, it has been a destination location for researchers and students from Texas A&M and around the world, leading to four new species discoveries, more than 30 peer-reviewed publications and 70 conference presentations, thousands of student experiences—and at least one marriage proposal.
Most trips to the Soltis Center are 7-10 days, but Jasmine Varghese ’25, a pre-veterinary student from Frisco, Texas, spent the entire fall 2023 semester there. Mornings were dedicated to the classroom for topics like medical communication and Spanish, while afternoons were for adventure, such as rainforest hikes and swimming in waterfall pools.
As a study abroad experience, her trip also included three stays with local families, as well as cultural connections like attending a professional soccer match and marching in a parade with others from the center on Costa Rican Independence Day. “It was a deeply impactful experience,” she said. “I came back a changed person.”
The center’s director, Dr. Eugenio Gonzalez ’96, is your man on the ground during your visit. Forgot a piece of equipment? Need a ride? Want to know how to say, “I’ve been stung by a bullet ant!” in Spanish? Dr. Gonzalez can hook you up. He manages the center’s staff of 15 full-time employees and makes sure visitors have a great time while learning and exploring. “It’s not luxurious, but it is comfortable,” he said of the facility—three main buildings and eight bungalows that can house up to 56 people at a time.
