Mahdia Bita '26

For Biology major Mahdia Bita, a study abroad experience in Costa Rica sparked a burgeoning interest in biodiversity. Mahdia traveled with a group of Mount Mary faculty and students to the Central American country during the January 2025 J-term. There, she had the unique opportunity to study native plants and animals in one of the richest and most varied landscapes on earth, while also learning about ecological conservation.  

During the trip, she explored a diverse range of terrain, from rainforests to coastal landscapes. Mahdia and her classmates visited with indigenous Maleku people, who shared some of their historic traditions and culinary fare with the group.  

“I learned so much,” she said. “Not only about biodiversity, but the broader world.”  

Mahdia added that the experience left her eager to return to Costa Rica for further exploration. 

“I didn’t expect to have this much fun on a school trip,” she said. “I was able to explore the world—and there is still so much still to learn!”