Bahamas Environmental Steward Scholars (BESS)
A Hands-on Work-Study Away Program
The Island School and Bahamas Reef Environment Educational Foundation (BREEF) have been partnering since Fall 2007 to offer immersive programming to Bahamian students, building local and global leaders and environmental stewards through the Bahamas Environmental Stewards Scholarship (BESS). The BESS program offers students the chance to participate in a 100-day Semester or a 6-week Summer Term at The Island School, as well as an internship placement with a conservation-centric organization based in The Bahamas. This unique experience allows students to engage in environmental and conservation research, immersion into the community, hands-on learning, leadership development, and opportunity readiness beyond high school graduation.
Students who are accepted into the BESS program complete a Semester or Summer Term at The Island School in addition to an internship placement facilitated by BREEF. Please see the eligibility criteria below.
A Differentiator
During the BESS Program, students engage in unparalleled experiences; they gain a new sense of independence and self-reliance, and understand their impacts as individuals in their community—which will certainly get noticed on a prospective student’s future college or job application. Admissions and hiring managers recognize that BESS Scholars bring unique research skills, real-world learning experiences, and the ability to make a lasting impact. Students will gain valuable knowledge, experiences, and skills, as they:
- Learn about national & global climate issues
- Become part of conservation efforts in The Bahamas
- Participate in field research
- Understand renewable energy sources
- Develop water skills (swim, snorkel, kayak, scuba)
- PADI OW Certification
- Reef Rescue Certification
- Study Marine Biology & Ecology
- Certification in First Aid & CPR
- Enhance your computer & public speaking skills
- Network with scientists and other professionals in the field
Eligibility
- 14 – 18 years old (current high school student or recent graduate)
- Bahamian citizen or eligible for Bahamian citizenship
- Demonstrate an interest in leadership and environmental sustainability
Scholarship
- Semester or Summer Term at The Island School
- Full scholarship coverage toward tuition with a set family contribution of $500
- Round-trip flights between Nassau & Eleuthera
- Internship placement through BREEF
To be considered for the BESS program, select ‘BESS’ when asked, ‘How did you learn about The Island School?‘ on the Preliminary Form accessed through the Apply Now button.
Contact admissions@islandschool.org or breef@breef.org with any questions!
Apply Today
Visit the BREEF website to learn more and apply for the BESS Programme.
Contact admissions@islandschool.org or breef@breef.org with any questions!Contact admissions@islandschool.org or breef@breef.org with any questions!
