Hello reader! My name is Kristine Prado-Casillas and I will be interning aboard the R/V Pt. Sur!

I recently graduated from the University of Washington with a Bachelor of Science in Oceanography. During my time at UW I participated in a number of research cruises aboard the R/V Rachel Carson and R/V Thomas G. Thompson. My time out at sea during these cruises introduced me to the field of marine technology, something completely different compared to my lab experiences in academia. Coming back from research cruises, I was itching to find more opportunities to go out to sea and help collect the data necessary for the science within oceanography.

What fascinated me the most about the career as a marine technician was seeing them deal with something new every day. They were constantly learning new things and developing new skills to keep up with the science and techniques to gather data. The ability to constantly learn on the job while working on a boat to support science is what drew me to the field and eventually this opportunity. I cannot wait to work with my mentor to learn skills working out on the deck and to see how much I can grow from this internship!

Outside of my love for the sea, I enjoy hiking, camping, crocheting, making friendship bracelets, playing with my pet birds, and dancing!

Goodbye Puget Sound, Gulf of Mexico here I come!