Interns in the Field with Coastal Expeditions

On a bright and sunny Sunday in February, our high school interns got the opportunity to explore the world outside our walls, specifically, Shem Creek, with the help of Coastal Expeditions. Armed with paddles, life jackets, sunscreen and a desire for adventure, they hit the water in tandem kayaks for a 90-minute exploration.

Throughout the kayaking trip, guides from Coastal Expeditions pointed out local birds, bugs and plant life. The students learned all about the saltmarsh ecosystem and why it is important to Charleston and our environment. Pausing in a section of pluff mud to learn more about their surroundings, the interns scooped up sea lettuce and spotted hundreds of snails along the muddy shores!

After kayaking, it was time for a presentation of an environmental assignment in Coastal Expedition’s open-air classroom. The students took turns getting to know each other better and learned about resume and cover letter skills from our teen programs manager, Ashley Zalabak.

The South Carolina Aquarium High School Intern Program is an opportunity to become a paid intern for 11th grade students in the Charleston area. Each spring, students attend training classes to learn about animals, ocean science, career development and team-building skills. This program is made possible by donations from generous partners including Alcoa Foundation, Boeing South Carolina, Google, SCE&G and VWR Charitable Foundation.