Programs Blog

Author: Carter McKinney, University of South Carolina

Shore Component

Friday, 12 July, 2024

Korotogo Fiji, Coral Coast

Eighteen hours of flight time and seventy-five hundred miles later, I am the farthest from home I have ever been, and I am doing my best Marty McFly impression having traveled forward on the date line. I have seen the Pacific Ocean for the first time, and I have crossed the equator for the first time. Additionally, it would be a crime to omit the gorgeous landscape of Fiji, so I included the picture above from where we are staying.

The community here is growing through icebreakers, shared cramp spaces, and journeys in and around Fiji. Our expeditions into coral reefs have proven fruitful and challenging with PVC contraptions often failing. Despite this, we are set to gather impactful data and hopefully contribute to the conservation of the coral reefs amidst their rapid destruction.

Considering, this trip is rooted in concepts of marine science that I possess very little knowledge of. It begs the question; will I be a weak link for my research group? That will be answered within the coming days, but as of right now, all these fish look the same and every time I hold my finger up to them, I just focus on how small my hand is.

Nonetheless, I am having a blast. My lack of marine science background means everything I am learning has a level of newness that excites my curiosity. My affinity for coral reefs has led me to some wild places and being here in Fiji truly is amazing. This wasn’t something I planned for in years previous, but life has led me across the world and for that I am truly grateful.(Not to mention we set sail on the 23rd of July!)

Shout out my family. I miss you guys. Mom and Dad, you would love it here. Shout out to Brynna. Miss you and GO ENGLAND!!!!