RDP student Keanna Richards. (Red Deer Polytechnic)

By Josh Hall (Twitter: @Vancan19)

RDP student reflects on experience talking to lawmakers and interning in Costa Rica

Oct 8, 2023 | 9:00 AM

Keanna Richards, a Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences student at Red Deer Polytechnic, was one of 40 learners selected to share their international experiences at CICan on the Hill in Ottawa recently.

CICan, or Colleges and Institutes Canada (CICan), holds the event where learners can discuss their studies with Parliamentarians.

Richards’ relevant studies came on the RDP Abroad Biology Experience, an innovative project funded by the federal government’s Global Skills Opportunity.

“CICan on the Hill was an amazing opportunity where I was able to share my experiences abroad with policy makers, MPs and other students who were also able to travel abroad with the Global Skills Opportunity program,” explains Richards, who spent three months in Costa Rica as a Research Assistant with the Center for Rescue of Endangered Marine Species.

Keanna Richards while in Costa Rica. (Red Deer Polytechnic)

Last seen Nov. 28

Missing: Jimmy Eagle, 27, of Maskwacis

Dec 14, 2025

the situation is dire

Two deaths, possibly from cold exposure, raise alarm amid Red Deer shelter situation and plight of homeless community

Dec 12, 2025

Lace-'Em Up!

Red Deer's outdoor rinks returning for another season

Dec 12, 2025

There, Richards conducted research on the relationship between the egg sizes of sea turtles and maternal and hatchling body size.

“I enjoyed sharing my story and advocating for the importance of international experiences and cultural exchange,” adds Richards. “Having the opportunity to share my experience and hear from others helped me to learn and build on my own perspectives that I gained through my internship in Costa Rica.”

This fall, Richards will complete her independent research study that she conducted in Costa Rica, earning the final credits of her Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences degree.

“The Global Skills Opportunity program helps to create life-changing academic, cultural and social opportunities for RDP learners in Biological Sciences and Practical Nursing,” adds Werner Beylefeld, Dean of International Education at RDP. “These study abroad experiences highly complement the education, training and applied research opportunities that are available at the Polytechnic.”

Applications for the next intake of both RDP Abroad experiences close October 22, 2023. For more information, contact RDP directly.