My name is Amanda Dostie, a recent UConn BS graduate, and a soon to be MATE Intern. With only a number of days left before my departure, I am overwhelmed by a complex variety of emotions. Beyond all else, I am overcome by a deep sense of honor and excitement in beginning this wonderful opportunity. I will start my journey in New Orleans, LA, aboard the R/V Pelican and R/V Point Sur, at the LUMCON facilities. For approximately three months I will learn the ropes of a new world, become accustomed to the life of a marine technician, and in doing so, grow tremendously. Following my time in New Orleans, I will make my way to Bermuda, working alongside BIOS and other institutes.
My journey to where I am now began with my love for the ocean. From a young age, my childhood was enriched with vivid memories along the coastline- swimming, exploring and boating along the waters. Later, my passions lead me to pursue a career within marine science. During my undergraduate career, I immersed myself in a number of academic and personal endeavors surrounding the environment and natural sciences. I took advantage of the research opportunities within my institute, and worked as a research technician for over four years. I worked under several water quality projects studying nutrient pollution, eutrophication, algae blooms, hypoxia, TNT/RDX and other related biochemical interactions. My experience as a research technician exposed me to work aboard large and small vessels. My passion for working in the field, lead me to instruct marine science and other naturalist subjects within outdoor-education. During this time I earned my USGS 6-pak Captains License, and other useful certifications. I finished college deck handing for my institute’s vessels and pursuing personal research endeavors. My personal research endeavors involved algae bloom quantification, remediation, as well as NGO and municipal work, in the hopes of pursuing a business in algae remediation. Upon graduation I was intrigued by the MATE Internship- an exciting opportunity that will utilize and blend my research and mechanical interests. Although I will be extremely out of my element, I am excited to learn as much as I can, especially in fixing instruments!
I am spending my remaining days with friends and family, enjoying the simple moments we too often put on hold, and scrounging up any last-minute travel necessities. Oh, and of course, there are the copious amounts of reading I will be doing. To my surprise, a bulk of my packing was completed early- though I am still gathering together my smallest creature comforts, like books and personal items, which I will be especially grateful for on long cruises. As I wait through my last few days, I am overwhelmed with both nerves and excitement. In a short amount of time, my routine and perspective will completely change, and in lieu of my trepidation- I could not be anymore excited to take this step. My process will last a little over half a year; easy by no means, but perhaps one of the most rewarding adventures of my life.
