Program and Location:
Spring, Bonaire: Ecological and Geological Processes in an Immersive Scientific Diving Experience; Kralendijk, Bonaire
Major/Minor:
Marine Sciences Major with a Concentration in Biological Oceanography, Biological Sciences and Outdoor Leadership Minor
Why did you choose to study abroad?
As a Marine Science student, pursuing research involving fieldwork has always been something I was highly interested in. This study abroad program enabled me to build valuable skills for this by obtaining my SCUBA certification and practicing scientific diving. I was also excited to have the opportunity to observe and study the unique ecosystems of Bonaire and see many plants and animals that are not found in the United States.
What did you learn about yourself?
Through this program, I learned that I am capable of more than I had imagined. SCUBA was something I had never considered before I learned about this program, and I had never traveled outside of the United States before. I had to learn a completely new skillset to conduct the scientific dives in Bonaire, so I spent the spring semester obtaining my SCUBA certification. This required a lot of studying and practice, but it also resulted in immense personal growth. By being willing to leave my comfort zone, I learned that I was capable of acquiring new skills and could access incredible opportunities.
What was one of your favorite parts of your program?
In addition to learning about scientific diving, I also had the opportunity to become certified in coral restoration with Reef Renewal Bonaire. My classmates and I learned about the organization’s approach to coral restoration, and we practiced maintaining coral nurseries and planting cultivated coral in the wild. It was very rewarding to be able to utilize my diving skills in this way, and I am now interested in learning more about coral restoration in the future.
What advice do you have to future study abroad students?
There are a lot of resources available and people who are willing to help you achieve your study aboard goals. Pursuing this program initially felt very daunting to me because I had never had the opportunity to travel internationally before, but I was able to find multiple sources of funding and gain useful advice by reaching out to the study abroad office, peers who had already studied abroad, and the faculty members running the program. If you are interested in studying abroad, do not hesitate to reach out. There are plenty of people at NC State who would be glad to help you.
How did your study abroad experience prepare you for your future career?
I am interested in pursuing graduate school and a career in scientific research, and this study abroad program allowed me to learn a useful skill in the field of Marine Science and learn about current research efforts in coral restoration. Participating in this program helped me solidify my decision to complete my degree in Marine Science and reinvigorated my passion for research in this field. Having a SCUBA certification increases the types of research projects I am able to work on, and I hope to eventually obtain an official Scientific Diving certification during my graduate studies.
Would you do it again?
Yes
