Sea of Cortez! Intern at a Marine Biology Research Center!

Becky Medina Start Date: Feb 27, 2014 - End Date: May 27, 2014
  • Study/Degree Abroad
  • Professional Development
  • Intern Abroad
  • Bahia de los Angeles, Baja California, Mexico.

My Travel Story

by: Becky Medina Start Date: Feb 27, 2014 - End Date: May 27, 2014
  • Study/Degree Abroad
  • Professional Development
  • Intern Abroad
Hi everyone! If you are here, then you have taken an interest in my studies in the world of marine biology! I am super happy that you are here!

        I am pursuing a degree in Marine Biology with an emphasis in marine animal nutrition.  The program I am currently enrolled in will be taking a group of students to spend twelve days at the Estacion del Mar de Cortez Marine Biological Station. While stationed here we will be immersed in the wonderful science and ecosystem of the Sea of Cortez; an experience that has been described by alumni as “breathtaking” and “a once in a lifetime experience”. On an academic note, this class is worth 3 college units and not only satisfies the requirements for the program, but also satisfies my general education requirements. This glass will be grooming me for a future as a field biologist (not one stuck behind a desk)

The syllabus states:  The course will focus on the marine biology of Bahia de los Angeles, in the central Gulf of California, Baja California, Mexico. This large emerald bay with its many islands and coves is met in dramatic contrast by the biologically diverse desert. It is well known for its beauty and unique combination of whales, dolphins, tropical fish, invertebrates and plants. Most of the field study the class will be participating in will be snorkeling off the many islands in warm tropical water. The field study and lectures will cover general concepts in marine biology and ecology we will explore the rocky intertidal, mudflat, sub-tidal island, and mangrove communities of the region.
    As many of you may know, exploring the tidepools of Leo Carrillo and the vast array of life found there has been a favorite past time of mine for as long as I can remember. It once was that I had to wait for my parents to want to go, but as soon as I got my drivers license and my own car, it was one of the first things I did. Since then, I go nearly every chance I get, weather and tides permitting.
    To be able to go on this trip, witness first hand the sheer size and nature of this world and creatures in it would be so awe-inspiring and hopefully bring this new generation (my generation) of scientists to a better understanding of our oceans and how we can help conserve the life found within and around it while still being able to support human reliance on it. The ocean is 75% of our planet. Everyone relies on it in one way or another. If it goes, we will be stuck in a rapidly dying world.

Please visit my blog as well to follow me as I learn and prepare for this trip! You can find it by scrolling all the way down and clicking on "Becky's Marine Adventures| Travel with me as I learn and make my way to the Sea of Cortez!" On this page I have posted two videos from my Professor's web page that were made from footage of past trips to this location. There is also a video from one of my own visits to my favorite tidepools!

The link beneath that, titled "marine Biology" is the link to my program's web page where you can see the packing list, class information, and other goodies :)
  • Bahia de los Angeles, Baja California, Mexico.

Updates

1

  • Videos!

    I have uploaded two videos to my blog (you may have to scroll down a little). They are both videos of this very trip, just from 2 and 3 years ago. Still, its a great way to see first hand what I will be experiencing!

    http://beckysmarineadventures.wordpress.com/

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