Shaquan C.
Summary of My Experience
Morning Walk/Tour of So8ths
The overall walk started nicely. I got a nosebleed about five minutes into it, so I missed most of it. The final part that I made (when my nose had stopped bleeding), we stopped at the pond, it was nice to hear the frogs croak, and we simply stood in the shade.
Day Field Sample Collections With Sc Dec
Their brief presentation about their work and citizen science stream program gave me some energy (also the fact that I devoured about three bags of chips and two bottles of water). Once we got to the creek and started sampling with Justin, his energy and enthusiasm were contagious. The water made it a wonderful experience being able to recall different macroinvertebrates that I had seen before that day.
Discussion on Resilience (SCOR) – Bryan Rabon
This discussion enlightened me. I appreciated his point of communication and focus on wording, especially in this current climate, because it is important how we use our words and interpret their meanings. His constant reference to the necessity of knowing your audience and using language to get what you need to help the communities around you. I would love to be in attendance at one of the conferences he mentioned or something to that degree. This discussion also had me wondering if Virginia had something similar, and researching the Atlantic Conservation Coalition.
Water Sample Analysis
My main job in this part of the experience was recording data and compiling it in the spreadsheet provided to me by Dr.Howard. What I remember from it was that it was extremely loud in the Learning Center to me, and I felt somewhat inadequate when it came to understanding the differences in some of the chemicals we were testing for, until I put it into perspective about how they would impact the water. The organizing of the date calmed me down, which in my opinion is so nerdy it makes me cringe slightly from the fact that I said that.
Evening Walk & 3C’s Discussion – Mike Elliot
The evening walk set me in a calm mood, walking with the group and conversing with the others made me feel less homesick and somber in the area. The stories that Mr. Harper told about the tales about the horses and the wordwook in the shedding areas made my mind settle. As I focused on the pieces, it led to a nice moment of reflection for me that art can arise from anything. Art coming from a place of passion and care is one of the most important things that humans can bring into the world.
Seeing Mr. Elliot parachute out of the plane was incredible. Once I saw that plane circle the first time, I knew immediately something was up. Once the smoke started rising, I locked in and tracked him down in the sky immediately. It was such a blessing to witness in person. The 3C’s discussion reminded me of my father, and his constant teachings of working to the best of your ability, and how no one wants someone who can’t fully commit themselves to the job and do what needs to be done. His detailing of the importance of consistency reminded me that I can’t get complacent, to keep my head down and get the job done regardless of what’s going on, and to help the group succeed however I can. Calculated courage is something that everyone needs. Commitment, if I say I’m going to do something, I do it. If I don’t I aim to be better.
Campfire & S’mores
My favorite part of this was having the privilege of managing and starting the fire. I’m glad Dr. Guzman gave me the opportunity. Seeing the fire breathe, exhale, and inhale calmed me. What I’m about to say is going to make me sound crazy, but I’ve always loved fire. It’s alive, it breathes, it rests, swells, and dampens just like any of us. It was hot being near it, but watching it calmed my mind; it helped me relax. This might’ve been my favorite moment of this experience (other than the presentations and my conversations with Mr. Harper), being alone, well, not alone but part of the environment around me, reminded me of home in ways my mind desperately needed. It wasn’t as strong a connection when I’m in Vernon Hill, but regardless, I felt one. Seeing everyone enjoy the S’mores was cool, too. It was my first time having a S’more, it was pretty good.
Night Moth Study – Kylie & Maya
Kylie and Maya did a wonderful job at showing the beauty of Moths, especially with the pinned ones they brought with them for us to see. Once I saw the book provided to us, I was interested in seeing species that could be personally observed. Walking the trails at night was nice, and standing out in the forest as it came to life with croaks and buzzing was a nice reminder of just how alive the environment around us was.
Highlights
Got an opportunity to take part in a future workshop that could help with not only my career but something very close to me as well.
Got to speak to someone who has experience with land management
In the audience of several government departments that presented their work and their planning for the future
Got to spend some quality time with the guys in this group, which led to me getting a better grasp on their personalities
Moments where I laughed stronger and more than I had in weeks.
The feeling of community with the individuals roomed with.
The ability to sit in the background while the group has fun.
Incredible amenities, nice food, and great stimulating conversation
I ate a lot of food. It was probably the healthiest food I’ve eaten in weeks.
