Hello!
In one week I will be boarding a plane to Bermuda where I will spend the next six weeks aboard the R/V Atlantic Explorer. I am a recent graduate of the University of Connecticut with a Bachelor’s degree in marine science. This will be my second time out to sea, but a much different experience than my first. While I was an undergrad, I did a semester through the Sea Education Association where I spent six weeks sailing aboard the SSV Robert C. Seamans. We sailed form Christchurch, New Zealand to Pape’ete, Tahiti. Along the way we made two port stops at Chatham Island, New Zealand and Raivavae, an island located in French Polynesia. Ever since experiencing what it is like to be out in the middle of the ocean, I have been itching to get back out on the water. This opportunity to be a MATE intern and learning to be a Marine Technician is an area that will combine my interest with the use of technology and working on a research vessel, participating in ground-breaking marine and oceanographic research. I am looking forward to doing reasearch in the Atlantic ocean.
I have never lived aboard a research vessel and I am looking forward to all the challanges, experiences and adventures that I will have over the next six weeks. Everything is laid out ready to be packed as I am going over my list of items to bring, making sure I am not forgetting anything. My excitment and anticipation of this trip has heightened as the days go by.
See you soon, Bermuda!
Maya