It has been a privilege to participate in the CAFE Summer Scholars Program. I collaborated with Adrian Jordaan and the Massachusetts Division of Marine Fisheries (MA DMF) on the "Artificial Reef Assessment in Nantucket Sound" project. I assisted in deploying, researching, and improving Baited Remote Underwater Video (BRUV) techniques.
BRUVs help researchers identify and compare fish species’ richness, abundance, and diversity across various marine habitats. My responsibilities included assessing BRUV videos for species presence, relative abundance, and size. While working with MA DMF, I also used a portable eDNA water filtration machine in the field, conducted side scan sonar surveys with the Habitat team to monitor eelgrass in Cape Cod Bay, and assisted with topside support for divers.
This hands-on experience deepened my understanding of the challenges and complexities associated with marine conservation. I have gained new insights about resource management, reef monitoring techniques, data analysis, and teamwork. The experience also solidified my commitment to pursuing a career that fosters positive change. I am eager to apply the insights and skills I have gained to make a positive impact on the environment and society, keeping up with my goal to make a difference and share and inform those around me.
