Dominica is among the youngest volcanic islands of the Lesser Antilles. It first emerged from the sea some 26 million years ago and has been sculpted by the elements to its current beauty. The Caribe Indians, whose ancestors were among the first settlers of the island, call it Waitukubuli, meaning "tall is her body." High peaks are covered by montane and elfin vegetation, while primary rain forest and an abundance of clean and often cascading rivers characterize slopes right down to the sea. This is home for several endemic species like the Sisserou Parrot depicted in Dominica's code of arms.

The spectacular scenery on land is paralleled in the ocean where coral reefs line steep drop-offs, making Dominica a renowned destination for divers and nature lovers around the world. Whales also visit these deep blue waters and can often be seen from shore.

All of this and more is explored by students and staff in the course of the ITME program. The field station, located on the West coast, serves as base of operations for field research and excursions carried out throughout the island. After a long and hot day at sea, picture cooling off in a pool beneath one of Dominica's many rainforest waterfalls.

Dominica's 70,000 inhabitants enjoy all the amenities of modern living, yet a calm pace drives daily life. The colorful agro-industry of this tropical "treasure island" strongly influences the pulse of the local community and ranks it among the friendliest in the Caribbean.