Reflections on my 2 weeks

Tonight marks a bittersweet moment in my stay on the island, my last night… As excited as I am to be on my way home, I also take a moment to reflect on my stay here and it saddens me to be leaving. Upon my arrival I was excited and a bit nervous. This is my first time truly leaving America (other than a trip to Canada) and travelling so far did not leave me without trepidation. I was delightfully surprised to find that the program was not only a great research opportunity, but a fantastic organization that cares for its staff and volunteers.

Bottlenose dolphins spotted in Wasini Channel

Base life is a lot of fun and everyone just hangs out – we have all become very close and I will be very sad to leave new friends behind. The research itself is very interesting – we go out on the boat most every day and seek out dolphins and other megafauna, recording their location and behaviour. We unfortunately haven’t had the most successful fortnight in our searching due to stong winds and stormy seas, but when we do find a pod of Bottlenose dolphins, or spot a lone turtle, it is a magical experience. Such majestic creatures in their natural habitat are a wonderful thing to observe.

Completley at home on the island

I have often sat in the solace of the darkness and considered staying on longer. I know I would feel welcome here, but I must leave at this time. This has been a life changing experience that I will never forget.

Reflections on my 2 weeks