Marine Biology Camps – Melissa's Experience
Dear Sail Caribbean,
I would like to thank you for the opportunity to sail with you guys; I had the time of my life! I came to Sail Caribbean thinking three weeks of marine biology camp would feel like a really long time. To my surprise, three weeks felt like five days and I wish I had more time to spend with the amazing people that I met! I was amazed that kids from all around the world could have so much in common. There were people on the boat I do not think I would normally be friends with, but I learned that there is so much more to a person when you really get to know them. In addition, everyone on my boat agreed that this trip has really humbled us. Being cut off from technology and everyday life, made me appreciate everything so much more and allowed me to be independent from my parents and friends.
I came on this trip hoping to see if I wanted to pursue a marine biology career. Almost every counselor in our fleet had (some kind of) marine biology background and they were all happy to share their knowledge and experience with me. My mate, Kate, helped me conduct an in depth marine biology project, which was an amazing opportunity, especially since there is not a beautiful ocean anywhere near Chicago. That really gave me insight into what marine biology field work consists of.
This trip had the perfect mixture of education and fun. After a long, fun day of scuba diving and sailing, I could come back for a marine biology lesson and be able to apply that knowledge the next day. One of the most memorable lessons was learning about bioluminescence and then hitting the water to see this magical phenomenon for myself. Upon returning to the boat, we all sat around the table with hot chocolate and shared our fascination for what we had just seen. It is also nice to know other kids with the same interest that I can stay in contact with.
Every day of the trip felt like a dream come true, filled with new adventures and memories. I will never forget the night we turned our boat into Hogwarts for the chili cook-off, or the night we whacked a piñata for Ashley’s birthday. This trip way exceeded my expectations with the amount of fun I had. I have already, and will continue to recommend Sail Caribbean and their marine biology programs to my friends. There is nothing better than being stranded out at sea with your best friends!
Thank you Sail Caribbean!
Melissa Pielet
Take a look at Sail Caribbean’s Marine Biology Camps for College Students – OCEAN College Marine Science, Sailing & Scuba
About the Author: Melissa Pielet is an 11th grader from Yorkville, IL. Her greatest passion is to travel and she is always looking for her next adventure!
