Kalina Gravel is a Marine, Estuarine and Freshwater Biology major from Vancouver, Washington. She is a SOAR Fund recipient and is interning for New England Coastal Wildlife Alliance this summer. Kalina is working to protect female terrapin turtle’s nests and educate the public about the organization and the work that they do.
Kalina Gravel: I am interning for New England Coastal Wildlife Alliance as an Assistant Field Researcher. My role involves MT and TN surveys along the beaches to locate nesting female terrapin turtles. Once a turtle is found, we collect data, including measurements, identification photos, and apply pit tags before releasing them. A key responsibility of mine is to implement self-release protection for the nests to prevent predation. This is first time the organization has a branch in Pocasset, so a significant part of my internship is public education and outreach. I communicate with the public, hold programs, and spread knowledge regarding what we do and how the public can help.
Kalina: I researched marine biology internships in Cape Cod and came across this one.
Kalina: My first job involved monitoring piping plovers for the Town of Orleans, which was a great experience. During that job, we discovered terrapin turtle tracks and even relocated a nest. Since that experience, I have been very curious about the terrapin turtles. Having never worked in marine biology before, I viewed this as a great opportunity to expand my knowledge in the field.
Kalina: I am proud of every aspect of this internship! It was a steep learning curve, but I quickly absorbed a lot of information. I am also proud of stepping into a leadership role, taking initiative on projects and our day-to-day work in the field.
Kalina: A valuable skill that I learned was how to collect data in the field and properly handle the wildlife. It been a great steppingstone to further my understanding of the field.
Another valuable skill that I learned is the ability to take initiative and to just jump into the work!
Kalina: Through this internship, I have gained more confidence and was able to build new skills both in the field and in the office. I feel much more confident in the career path I have set for myself. It is also an incredibly fulfilling job —conducting MT and TN surveys, then returning to the beaches, to see the nests we’ve protected and the eggs that are developing safely.
Kalina: I received the SOAR grant from UNH. Without that grant, I wouldn’t have been part of this incredible experience.
Kalina: Seize every opportunity that comes your way and remain open to learn and expand your knowledge, even if it’s not directly related to field of study.
