Hi everyone!
My name is Tyler Peterson and I recently graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Oceanography from the University of Washington in Seattle. My internship will be hosted by the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI) on board the R/V Neil Armstrong. I am very excited to be joining the ship for two research cruises in the North Atlantic from March 23rd to April 30th. The first cruise is an ocean acoustics field experiment at the Atlantis II Seamounts. The second is the spring infrastructure deployment and servicing cruise for the Ocean Observatories Initiative Pioneer Array located on the continental shelf and slope south of New England.
Shortly before joining the University of Washington School of Oceanography, I had the opportunity to participate in a short research cruise in Puget Sound. I loved being out on the water and helping with marine data collection. It confirmed to me my interest in oceanography, and I immediately knew I wanted to participate in more research cruises. During my Ocean Technology class, I learned about the role of a marine technician which inspired me to pursue this internship. I am very eager to meet and learn from marine technicians Emily and Croy on board the Armstrong. I am extremely grateful that this opportunity will allow me to realize my dream of going out on research cruises to help with marine data collection, while also providing me the ability to develop skills and knowledge that will help jump-start my career in the field of marine technology.
I am also excited to be traveling to Woods Hole, Massachusetts, for the first time. For 11 years, my mom grew up and attended grade school in the North Falmouth area which is about 20 minutes from WHOI. Ever since I was little, my grandma has shared with me stories about Woods Hole and “the Cape” (Cape Cod). “Woods Hole is such a neat place, Ty! You would love it!” my grandma has told me many times. She has always encouraged my love for the oceans and been an inspiration for me to study oceanography. I know she will be excitedly cheering me on from the Sacramento area in California, where I grew up. Thanks “Nan”!
Before my internship begins, I want to thank Maria Osiadacz of the MATE Center and Sarah Fuller of WHOI for making this opportunity possible. I also want to thank all my family, friends, and teachers who have supported me and helped me grow- I can’t wait to share this adventure with you!
I will be leaving Seattle early on March 23rd (tomorrow!) and arriving in Woods Hole to board the Armstrong in the evening. I am looking forward to writing my next blog post from on board! Until then…
Thanks for reading,
Tyler
My first research cruise aboard the R/V Rachel Carson