After a long, hard day yesterday, today went a little differently. The groups who are doing projects that need high tide, went out in the morning while the other groups studied for their test. In the afternoon, the two groups switched.
The morning group faced some rough water out at Sand Dollar Reef. Luckily, everyone was still able to collect data for their research projects.The coral reef conservation group took good pictures to analyze later and the Christmas Tree worm group found over a hundred worms!! Hallie and Adrianna also found a very large Coral Crab. He was hiding in a hole that he was way too large for. We tried to pry him out gently with a stick. He did not want to come out and play.
When the afternoon rolled around, it wasn’t quite low tide, so the groups had to hang out and wait for a little while. Doing these projects have taught us all patience, and that not everything is easy or turns out like you expect it. After a little delay, the groups got right to work. The projects for the low tide folks consist of hermit crabs and brittle stars. They all gained much ground on their projects.
After some last minute cramming, our exam was administered. Many found this exam more difficult than the previous, but we are all still confident in our newly gained knowledge. Once students were done with their exams, they were asked to leave the class room to allow others to finish. But as soon as you walked out the door you were greeted by a giant swarm of mosquitoes. Many students were doing some funky dance moves to keep the bugs away. But at the end of the day we all reassembled to read ya’lls comments and bond by watching movies, doing crafts, and telling funny stories. We have all become very close and are getting to know more about each other every day. Tonight we will rest up for our swim to the drop off tomorrow. Most students are excited while some others are apprehensive. More dude points could be earned tomorrow. I hear that Dr. Phillips gives great pep talks when it comes to the wall. Hopefully his inspiration gives students courage.
Adrianna McDaniels and Hallie Donathan