Understanding Coastal Hardening in the US Virgin Islands Through Satellite Mapping

Science Internship Program (SIP) — UC Santa Cruz

AUGUST 2021

Coastal protection isn’t as simple as placing these structures along the shore, which is why we need more eco-friendly solutions. However, coastal hardening data is necessary in order to start planning these alternatives and unfortunately, there was almost no data on the prevalence of coastal structures throughout the US Virgin Islands. This brings us to our research project which was essentially to map out the structures found on the US Virgin Islands coastlines. This creates a geographic database to help future scientists plan alternative methods in protecting the coast and its communities.

Although it was delivered online, I learned a lot about the biological research process, especially the importance of perseverance when encountering unprecedented issues or errors; I learned to collaborate and communicate with others and practiced my public speaking skills when I presented my findings to UCSC staff and other peers. Ultimately, this internship was an unforgettable experience where I gained significant research experience and skills that I will use in college and beyond. 

Common Cuttlefish — Sepia Officinalis

Academic Connections — UC San Diego

AUGUST 2019

In this research project, I studied the many aspects of the Cuttlefish and presented my findings to my peers and mentors at the end of the program. My responsibilities consisted of researching evolutionary history, taxonomic meaning and significance, biology (reproduction, lifespan, survival mechanisms), as well as ecology (habitat, predators and prey, wordly distribution). While I found it difficult finding primary sources through online scientific databases, this project allowed me to expand my knowledge on an organism I was interested in as well as furthering my researching skills for future endeavors during my academic career.