By Kilisha Fain
Florida A&M University College of Agriculture and Food Sciences (CAFS) student Chai Comrie said he gained a new life experience during his recent venture studying abroad.
Whether taking an exciting journey countryside or abroad, traveling is one of the best ways for college students to have new experiences and witness different cultures. For Comrie, the opportunity to explore new and foreign environments meant learning new skills and gaining a new network of friends.
The first-year animal science pre-vet major recently traveled to Heraklion, Greece, to participate in the International Ocean Discovery Program (IOPD) for a six-week study, aboard the JOIDES Resolution (JR), a scientific ocean drilling research vessel that maneuvers into the ocean floor to collect and study core samples, giving scientist a glimpse into Earths development.
Funded by the National Science Foundation (NSF), the program ran from February 9to March 21, 2023, to teach students about how the study of the Earth’s core is significant to understanding climate control and the earth’s history. Comrie said he always aims to take part in opportunities that enhance his professional growth.
Most days, we prepared smear slides of the core and microfossils that were collected and conducted multiple research tests. We even had lessons in filming and writing children books”, Comrie said. “Our day typically ended around 8 p.m. each night, then, we would play games, watch movies or even sing karaoke.”
In addition to his visit to Heraklion, the ship also docked in Tarragona, Spain, where Comrie said he enjoyed tours of the city and partook of the local cuisine. Following an overnight stay in Barcelona, Spain, the group parted ways and Comrie prepared for his return trip to Tallahassee.
Lewis, an instructor of CAFS organismal biology and microbiology, said connecting students with opportunities like these can be transformative.
“These programs expose students to an array of scientific research practices and techniques”, said Lewis. “It’s also an opportunity for them to network with students from across different countries.”
Lewis said Comrie was the first student from an HBCU to be selected for the program.
In addition to research offerings, IODP provides opportunities to attract, retain and diversify the workforce in the field of science, which is currently a major challenge facing most countries. Lewis said the program also addresses exposure gaps among student populations of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
“This is an NSF funded program,” said Lewis. “My hope is that these experiences will serve as a mechanism for increased engagement in science and technology and provide a vehicle for professional development in scientific research.”
Travel expenses, including lodging and meals were paid for by the Ambassadors for STEM Training to Enhance Participation (A-STEP) and the U.S. Science Support Program.
“The best part of this experience for me would definitely have to be the people, not just the students, but everyone on the ship, because they were all excited about the experience.” said Comrie.
His advice to other students considering studying abroad is simple. “Do it. Make sure you have an international plan to stay safe, always travel in groups, but most of all, just go for it. If the opportunity comes your way, don’t be afraid to take the leap.”
