Week 8:
Not “Goodbye”, Just “See You Later”

August 1, 2020

This summer truly exceeded all my expectations. I went into this internship with a lot of uncertainty and nerves, but I leave with lots of wonderful memories, valuable experiences, and excitement. This last week, we dug even more into the data we collected this summer, and it was very reassuring to really see that all the work I’d been doing was useful, interesting, and important. I plan on staying in touch with Dr. Pettay and Lindsey as more data gets collected, just to see where this project goes. It’s very cheesy to write out, but I know that even though this is the end of my internship here in South Carolina, it’s the beginning of something really cool.

As I’ve talked about in my blogs throughout this summer, I’ve gained so much from this experience, both professionally and personally. Professionally, I’ve learned a lot more about coastal ecosystems, and marine ecosystems in general. I’ve learned what types of data can reveal certain information about these systems. I’ve also learned how a research lab functions- particularly how it gets set up, and some of the obstacles that come with that. I’ve learned patience and flexibility as we dealt with COVID-19, bad weather, tricky equipment, and all the other challenges presented by field and lab work. I’ve also made awesome connections in the field with people who are doing and have done really cool, relevant work with (and for) the environment.

Personally, I’ve learned what it really feels like to live on my own so far from home. I’ve explored a new city halfway across the country and took advantage of all it has to offer. I also did a lot of reflecting on what I want my future career to look like, and how I hope to prioritize my interests and passions alongside my job, finding a balance (and coherence) between the two. I’ve gotten comfortable asking questions when I don’t understand something. I’ve recognized that even if I don’t know right now exactly what I want to be doing in the future, there is so much time ahead of me to continue exploring and figuring that out, and I am fully capable of navigating that process.

Through all these experiences and with everything I’ve gained, I have so much gratitude. First, to Dr. Pettay, for being so willing to bring me into his lab at the last minute and patiently teaching me so much. Also, to Lindsey, for being such a fantastic friend and making this summer so enjoyable when it could have been really lonely (thanks COVID). To the Port Royal Sound Staff for letting Lindsey and me into your space and giving us a glimpse into what environmental nonprofit work looks like. To Dr. John Mark Dean for facilitating this internship and connecting me with his friends doing really important environmental work so I can hear their stories. To the professors and staff at Cornell that made this whole summer possible, and way less scary. To my family, who supported me and checked in on me during this whole process. To the dolphins (and one sea turtle) that came to say goodbye to me on my last morning at the Port Royal Sound dock. I could go on and on. I recognize that this summer would not have been possible (or nearly as amazing) without the help of these people and so many more, and I truly cherish these relationships and the support they provide.

Now looking forward, I will carry all these things with me. Moving through school and into a career, I know I can confidently face new challenges, successfully take on new opportunities, and grow and have fun while doing this. Also, I know I am never doing these things alone. So, one final time, thank you to everyone who made this summer amazing and thank you to Beaufort for being so beautiful. I can’t wait to visit again soon.