Morgan Collins '25 is studying abroad in the rain forests of Costa Rica during the summer before her junior year on the women's soccer team. Learn more about Morgan, who will be chronicling her days in Central America.

My name is Morgan Collins and I am a rising junior at Brandeis University. I am from Littleton, Massachusetts, and I chose this school for my undergraduate studies because it is a challenging academic institution where I could continue to play soccer while pursuing a degree in science.

I have been playing soccer since the age of four, and it has always been one of my favorite hobbies. In my time at Brandeis University, I have continued to play soccer as a center-back.

I have been recognized with the 2022 New England Soccer Journal's Starting 11, the University Athletic Association All-Academic Award in 2022, and the College Sports Communicators Academic All-District Award in 2022.

Regardless of the challenges I faced on the field, I have always prioritized my studies and hope to attend graduate school in the future for research. I have chosen to study abroad this summer in Costa Rica through the program CIEE, where I will not only be taking classes but I will also be conducting my own research and exploring the rainforest ecosystem.

I decided to study abroad this summer as a way to continue studying and playing soccer during the academic year in addition to experiencing a new country, culture, and different landscape.

I worked this past winter and spring with the study abroad staff to decide which summer abroad program to apply to. I knew I wanted a program with an opportunity to pursue research, but I also wanted a different experience where I could explore and spend time in nature.

After applying and being accepted into this program, I have spent the past month preparing to spend the entire summer in a foreign country, up until my return a few days before preseason. I am excited to share my journey with you!