Stanford University offers a wide variety of opportunities for its
students to engage in substantive, meaningful academic and professional
experiences at the interface of ocean science and policy. As a student
studying interdisciplinary environmental science, these programs have
been transformative for how I see myself academically and
professionally. The opportunities are made possible by collaborations
with other academic institutions, non-governmental organizations, and
governments. For instance, the Stanford at SEA program partners with the
Sea Education Association to introduce students to marine biology and
oceanography alongside sail handling and celestial navigation aboard a
tall ship. While dissecting fish stomachs on the ship, I became more
comfortable identifying myself as a scientist and fell in love with
being at sea. Outside of courses, Stanford provides students with myriad
ways to undertake significant work experiences. The Stanford in
Washington program, for example, matches undergraduates with government
offices or nonprofit organizations in Washington, D.C., for full-time
internships during the school year. Students also take classes in the
evening to complement their work experiences. I interned at the
Department of Justice in the Environment and Natural Resources Division,
which gave me a unique perspective on how federal agencies enforce
environmental statutes. The Haas Center for Public Service and Stanford
in Government, a student organization, also provide stipends for
hundreds of summer fellowships. With SIG funding, I worked at the Center
for Ocean Solutions and contributed significantly to a coastal
adaptation policy project and planning for a new small-scale fisheries
initiative. My experience with Stanford's programs have allowed me to
substantively contribute to my learning about the ocean and to the
missions of my host organizations while also giving me a sense of
direction for my plans post-graduation.