This internship has proven to be an amazing experience and it’s only been 1 week. Though I was technically brought on to be an electrical engineering intern with the Alvin overhaul team, within the first few days it was decided that I would work with the mechanical engineers as well. This has given me the opportunity to learn and get my hands on multiple systems in the sub. I assisted with building and testing the battery banks that power the sub, installing a view port window, I have learned how to make hydruaulic lines using swagelocks for the mercury trim system, and have been able to add a few of my own technical skills to leave my mark on the Alvin. Earlier this week I was able to enter the sphere for the first time and check out what it looks like from the pilots perspective. Though the sub was not fully powered up, or fully assembled, just being in the pilots position gave an exhilirating little taste of what a future in the pilot’s seat would feel like. Being landbased and working in the shop on a sub in pieces, I haven’t been able to cross off any of the items on my MATE paperwork. The information I am getting, the processes I am watching, and the hands on experience of assembly and testing is much more valuable to me and I feel incredibly grateful that I joined the team at this time. I am also thankful that I was assigned to this team full of welcoming, impressive, and knowledgable individuals. Every person that I have talked to on my team has been more than willing to answer all my questions, which, trust me, is almost a nonstop activity itself, and each person has stepped up to teach me anything I am willing to learn. Outside of work hours, I have had the opportunity to socialize with other WHOI employees who are also all passionate and curious people who just want to share their experiences at sea and the things they have learned along the way. Being landbased has also given me a chance to enjoy one of the social activities on the WHOI campus, the softball league. I participated in my first game today where it was engineering vs biology. Again, I was introduced to more members of the WHOI community who were just as warm, welcoming, and encouraging as everyone else I have come in contact with within the organization. 1 week down and I am only more enthusiastic and more ready to learn and experience as much as possible during my time as an intern.