In Ecotoxicology, also known as Coastal Contaminants, learned from Dr. Timnit Kefela in the Spring of 2025 about the various toxins which influence our environment. Activities of the the class includes hands on experience in using instruments such as the YSI EXO2 Sonde, YSI Professional Plus Sonde (Mini Sode for short), and the Hach DR900 colorimeter (or Skittles for short). Knowing how to read instruments' data, interpreting them, as well as organizing it were one of many key aspects of the class. We also discussed in length about the various terminology, concerns, and factors surrounding past and present toxins. At the end of each lab, we were also expected to write a sophisticated lab report about the findings of our samples.   

In environmental law and policy, I learned from Dr. Dan Reinemen (Doc) about the ins and outs of what makes up environmental law and policy. Within the class we learned about CEQA and NEPA guidelines, the role of the ESA and various major environmental acts as well as their impacts on not only the environment but various parts of society as well. We put what we learned to the test by creating our own testimony on support (or not) an environmental act or bill which could be added to a town's legislation. Although this testimony was proposed as a mock city hall meeting held and lead by the people within  the class, it was still a fantastic opportunity to learn these valuable skills.   

The class poster presented at the Western Society of Naturalist at the 2025 conference in San Diego.

I was fortunate enough to join volunteer opportunities facilitated by Channel Islands Restoration (CIR) where I put my skills and knowledge of restoration ecology into practice. In this project, I worked at their new nursery in Goleta, California. During this event I have help transplanting new native plants such as sacapellote (Acourtia microcephala), Coyote Brush (Baccharis pilularis), and Giant Wild Rye (Leymus condensatus) for sites within San Marcos Preserve as well as prepped Purple Needle grass seeds (Nassella pulchra) for cultivation for coastal dune restoration sites. This experience was fulfilling and memorable, and motivated my interest in restoration efforts within California ecosystems even more.    

This was another volunteer event with the Channel Islands Restoration (CIR), one that I hope I get to participate again- or even align my future career with. In this project, I worked on Santa Cruz Island for about 5 hours on the cliff-sides of cavern point with other volunteers as well as CIR staff. During this event I have helped weed invasive species of crab grass, shoveling mulch over the newly exposed ground as well as jute netting, and spreading native island seeds of 13 species cultivated on Santa Cruz to encourage plants such as California sage brush (Artemisia californica), island tree buckwheat (Eriogonum arboreseens), salt bush (Atriplex lentiformis), and many more. This experience was so much fun! It reaffirms my belief that this is the kind of work I would want to do for many years to come.    

At the time of writing, I am a member of the environmental team at the Port of Hueneme, where I support day-to-day operations while gaining hands-on experience in environmental programs and port operations. My role focuses on contributing to ongoing projects and developing a deeper understanding of industry practices within a working port environment.

Key responsibilities include supporting the planning and implementation of initiatives that contribute to the Port’s strong performance in the annual Green Marine Certification program. I also prepare and manage monthly activity reports using Excel, tracking vessel and trucking data for the California Air Resources Board (CARB). In addition, I assist with community- and environment-focused initiatives such as the PHRESH Air Program and the START Project, which aim to strengthen regional air quality efforts and community engagement.