Frequently Asked Questions

How much formal education about ants/insects do I need to take this course?

While prior knowledge/familiarity with ants specifically will be helpful, it is not required. We'll be covering what you need to know in broad strokes. We want this course to be accessible to people from a wide variety of backgrounds. However, familiarity with basic biology/entomology is suggested.

Do I need to attend the whole time? When do I need to be there?

We recommend you attend the whole time. We plan a packed schedule, including field trips, so late arrival may mean missing out on a series of activities. Each section builds upon the previous one, and missing bits and pieces will result in you quickly falling behind.

Will food be provided?

Lunch will be provided each day, along with complimentary coffee, tea, and snacks throughout the day. You are welcome to bring your own food. There is not sufficient time in our busy schedule for travel to off-campus restaurants.

Will there be free time in the evenings?

After 5pm each day, all scheduled activities will be complete, and you are free to spend the evening as you like. We will have an optional suggested social activity every evening, but these are not required.

How physically accessible is this event? What sorts of activities will be involved?

This course will be three 8-hour days involving a combination of sitting for lectures and using microscopes, along with outdoor field trips. The field trips will include standing, slow walking, and crouching or crawling. They will last for up to an hour in the Florida summer heat.

Do you offer scholarships?

We do have a limited number of scholarships. If attending would present a financial hardship, please reach out to us at alucky@ufl.edu about your circumstances and we will be happy to work with you (and your institution, if applicable) to help you attend.

Where can I stay in Gainesville?

Aloft (3743 Hull Rd) and the UF Hilton (714 SW 34th St) are a 20-minute walk, 15-minute bus ride, or 5-minute drive away from the course location, Steinmetz Hall. If you'd like to stay closer to downtown, the Holiday Inn (1250 W University Ave) is close to bus routes to UF and downtown.