1. Why you signed up for marine bio 2
I signed up for Marine Bio 2 for numerous reasons. First and foremost, I had a blast last year in Marine Bio 1 in the BVI. The Dive BVI crew, Mr. Kirby, and Doc made it an experience I will never forget. It was the best combination of learning and fun I’ve ever had. I can’t believe I learned so much about marine life as the up close, hands on learning made it a worthwhile experience. So naturally, when Mr. Kirby and Doc proposed a second year class, I said yes in a heartbeat. I wanted to not only have another fun adventure in the BVI scuba diving with my friends, but also to learn more about sea life and our environment.
2. What I’m looking forward to the most
I’m just excited to get back down to the BVI so that I can go scuba diving again. The hands on experience is really the most unique type of learning you can get at jesuit, so I wanted to get as much of it as I can. I truly believe that type of learning is the kind that really sticks with you as opposed to just sitting in a classroom so I am glad to be able do it again. Not many people get to say that they went scuba diving in the Virgin Islands for a class, so I’m just glad to be able to have that kind of opportunity.
3. Summarize what we did this week
-day 1: learned about the ecology, anatomy, and importance of coral and coral reefs. Took a quiz for review.
-day 2: separated into groups and created short movies on the possible causes of coral bleaching. My group focused on harmful fishing techniques.
-day 3: learned about the ecology, anatomy, and importance of mangroves. We then taught the MB1 guys about mangroves and had a little quiz.
-day 4: crafted a letter/petition to conservationists explaining the benefits of coral transplanting after we were told our restoration efforts last year damaged many coral, resulting in a heavy fine. Thankfully there was no fine and we had actually done a fantastic job; we still learned a lot from this experience.
-day 5: learned about PCR (polymerase chain reaction) and how/why DNA can be copied. Also started copying fish DNA ourselves.
