![](\"https:\/\/cldup.com\/Z9SJVeJwn5-3000x3000.jpeg\")
Checking the net for fish after bringing the SMURF onboard. Photo courtesy of oregonmarinereserves.com<\/a>.<\/p><\/div>\n I\u2019ll admit I was a bit nervous to get in the water, although in the end I had no reason to be. The aquarium and jetties were stress-free environments where all that was required of me was to swim around and become comfortable. Adding in the SMURFing component laid down a layer of difficulty, as you have to concentrate fully on the task without worrying about the snorkeling aspect of the operation (e.g. breathing, clearing the snorkel, etc.). But by the end of the second SMURF, I felt good about the whole procedure, and the rest of the fieldwork was a blast. My only regret was not getting in the water sooner!<\/p>\n Aside from this, the end of the week also marked our final symposium, where we gave five minute presentations and also showcased our posters for all of Hatfield to see. Everyone did an amazing job, and it was great to be able to see the diversity of work that the Oregon Sea Grant supported. It\u2019s safe to say that I\u2019ve never been a part of a program like this where I\u2019ve been able to both participate in research efforts and also gain so much work experience and professional skills. The program site lists its purpose as being \u201cto prepare undergraduate students for graduate school and careers in marine science, policy, management, and outreach,\u201d and I would definitely say that my time here has reflected that statement.<\/p>\n Shot of my poster for the symposium.<\/p><\/div>\n It\u2019s too early to say goodbye yet as we still have one more week to go, but for the most part I\u2019m wrapping things up at the office and getting ready to move on. I\u2019ll see everybody one last time in next week\u2019s blog post!<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" It\u2019s been nine weeks since the start of the program, but even this far into things, there\u2019s always something new to do at work. My other SMART goal this summer was to learn how to scuba dive and\/or snorkel. While … Continue reading ![](\"https:\/\/cldup.com\/LXSSUDqGXo.jpg\")