Thoughts, adventures, observations, and everything in between.
July 13th, 2026
I'm officially halfway through my internship this summer!! I can't believe it's already halfway over, but I also can't believe any of this was even possible. I've done so many things that I genuinely never thought I'd be able to do, and that's probably what I'm most proud of. Yesterday I took my first surfing lesson. I sucked. Like, really sucked. But it was SO much fun. I think with enough practice I could become a solidly mediocre surfer!! haha! honestly still a win. The whole lesson was basically just paddling. My arms were on fire, every wave pushed me back, and I felt like I was making absolutely no progress. It kind felt like Sisyphus, endlessly pushing the boulder uphill only for it to roll back down. But Camus says, *"One must imagine Sisyphus happy"* and I think I finally understand what he meant. The point wasn't whether I stood up on the board—I didn't. The point was that I loved every second of trying. I laughed every time I got knocked off, paddled back out, and did it all over again. I managed to ride a couple of waves lying down, and that was SOOO COOL. I've also gone on multiple night dives, completed my Advanced Open Water certification, and today I officially logged my 30th dive. I started this summer with only four logged dives, so that still feels kind of crazy to say. I've done actual real hikes too, the kind where you wake up at 6 a.m. with way more water than you think you'll need. I've never thought of myself as an outdoorsy or athletic person, but I think this summer proved me wrong. It turns out I can do a lot more than I ever gave myself credit for. I’m really proud of that. I'm also so happy with my internship and everything it's given me so far. Every week I've learned something new, met someone interesting, or done something I never imagined I'd get the chance to do. The people I've met here have been one of the best parts. I really think I've made friendships that will last long after this summer ends. I really hope so. It's weird knowing I'm already halfway through. Part of me feels like I just got here, and part of me feels like this place has already changed me in ways I probably won't understand until much later.
BRANCH Coral Foundation
Since I've been posting a lot about my time in Curaçao, I thought I'd share a little about the organization that's made this whole experience possible. I'm spending the summer interning with Branch Coral Restoration, a nonprofit focused on restoring and protecting coral reefs here in Curaçao. They grow corals in underwater nurseries and outplant them onto reefs, while also doing research, education, and community outreach. As someone who's interested in coral restoration and marine conservation, getting to see this work up close has been incredibly exciting. One thing that has stood out to me right away is how kind and welcoming everyone has been. Starting something new in a new country can be intimidating, but everyone at Branch has been so generous with their time, knowledge, and encouragement. I've only been here a short time, but I've already learned so much and had opportunities I never imagined I'd get to experience. It's easy to feel overwhelmed when thinking about the challenges facing coral reefs around the world, which is why it's so inspiring to be surrounded by people who are actively doing something about it every day. If marine conservation, diving, or coral restoration interests you at all, I definitely recommend checking out Branch. Whether that's through volunteering, interning, visiting, or donating, there are so many ways to support the work they're doing. I'm incredibly grateful to be here and can't wait to see what the rest of the summer has in store.
Curaçao!!!
I landed in Curaçao Five days ago, to begin my summer internship with Branch Coral Restoration, and I'm still a little shocked that I'm actually here. For months, this trip was something I talked about, planned for, and counted down to. Now, suddenly, my days are filled with coral reefs, dive gear, salty hair, and views of the ocean that still don't feel real. One of the best parts of this experience so far has been getting to share it with my friend Cora. We've spent the last few days settling into island life, exploring, and diving together, and it's made everything even more memorable. Cora's goal is to reach 100 dives, and after seeing how much diving we'll be doing this summer, I'm starting to think I might be able to join her. Today was especially exciting because I officially started my Advanced Open Water certification. Diving is one of my favorite things, and getting the opportunity to improve my skills while living on an island surrounded by beautiful reefs feels unreal. I'm excited to challenge myself, gain more experience underwater, and become a more confident diver. It's still only my first week, but Curaçao already feels like an adventure. I'm excited for everything that's ahead, the dives, the coral restoration work, the people I'll meet, and all the unexpected moments that come with living somewhere new. For now, I'm just grateful to be here and excited to see what the next two months bring!!