Some people might view spending the summer on Cape Cod as a long vacation. But Bridgewater State University interns at the Marine Biological Laboratory (MBL) in Woods Hole have a different perspective.
The seven students lucky enough to spend part of their summer working for the nonprofit educational and research organization see their work as a great opportunity to expand their knowledge and meet some of the country’s leading scientists and researchers.
“The nice thing about the scientists is they’re always more than happy to explain what they’re doing,” said David Conlon, ’19, a biology and elementary education major from Weymouth. “They love to talk. It’s a really friendly, open, inviting atmosphere here.”
David and fellow biology major Chris Dix, ’20, work in the Central Microscopy Facility under the guidance of Louie Kerr, director of imaging services and a staff scientist at MBL. While their primary job is to train people on using the microscopes, they also get to peek at embryonic squid and coral, plus get to see some of the lab’s ongoing research.
“I didn’t quite know what to expect coming into it,” said Chris, who is from Marion. “It’s definitely been a great experience. I’ve enjoyed my time here and learned a lot.”
Across the MBL’s ocean-side campus, recent graduate Rebecca Edwards works in the Division of Education, inventorying and unboxing equipment used for various classes. The Attleboro resident has learned about tools not found on BSU’s campus and how to interact with vendors.
This year’s interns are part of a long line of Bridgewater students who have spent their summers at the MBL thanks to a partnership forged between the organization and BSU professors, who prescreen internship applicants. Mr. Kerr said he is pleased with the lab experience Bridgewater students bring.
“I’ve had nothing but outstanding students,” he said. “I’m just impressed with the quality and level of students coming out of Bridgewater.”
Other interns at MBL with BSU ties are Imani McKenzie, Kassandra Romanowicz, Jacqueline Greeley and Terrain Edwards-Grant. (Photos by Carl Hollant, ’15, and Brian Benson, University News)