Beyond invaluable friendships, I gained broad scientific and research experience that absolutely contributed to where I am today.

SFS PROGRAM: Marine Resource Studies | Turks and Caicos | Spring 2012

HOME SCHOOL WHILE AT SFS: Clark University

CURRENT POSITION: Research Assistant III, Woods Hole Research Center  

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE OR MOST STRIKING SFS MEMORY?

My favorite memory from SFS was the hands-on learning. It was amazing to have class in the morning about marine ecology and fish identification, and then that very afternoon, be underwater snorkeling or diving putting what we just learned into practice. It is hard to beat that up close learning style!  

LOOKING BACK, WHAT DID YOU GAIN FROM YOUR TIME AT SFS?

I gained so much from my time at SFS it is hard to narrow everything down. Beyond invaluable friendships, I gained broad scientific and research experience that absolutely contributed to where I am today. The hands on experience and ability to develop and implement my own research question really sparked my interest in following research as a career path.  

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO A PROSPECTIVE SFS STUDENT?

Detach as much as possible from your regular life and immerse yourself in your experience. Make strong connections with your fellow students and professors and push yourself to take risks!  

RECOMMEND A GREAT BOOK OR FILM THAT HAD AN INFLUENCE ON HOW YOU VIEW THE ENVIRONMENT.

Jane Goodall has always been my role model because of how she pushed the boundaries and persevered in a mostly male-dominated field. She transformed the way I view the natural world around me. The new documentary “Jane” is an incredible film which pieces together old National Geographic footage to portray her experience as a biologist. Highly recommended for anyone who loves the environment.  

WHAT WAS ONE OF YOUR FAVORITE SPOTS DURING YOUR SFS PROGRAM?

Any time I am scuba diving is my favorite time of exploration and reflection. It is such a peaceful and humbling experience to be underwater, especialy because you never know what you are going to see. My favorite place that I dove was in Guadeloupe at the Jacques Cousteau Marine Reserve. Never before had I seen so many fish in one reef!  

December 2018