Marine Mammal Research and Conservation

I always felt like protecting the seas of our planet was something that should be everyone's responsibility. But, in today's world very few people think it's a priority and even fewer actually take action in that direction. But Archipelagos is one of these few non-profit organizations in Greece that is actually trying to make a difference. This internship gave me the opportunity to be part of that community, while exploring my interests and developing my research skills.
During the program I had the chance to choose a topic that aligned with my knowledge, skills and interests and work independently on my own project. Even though I had guidance by supervisors, most of thee responsibility was on me to organize my work, get the data that I needed and make progress. It was a really valuable experience to actually be in charge of a project and gave me an understanding of a lot of things that make research a lot more complicated than I originally though. I also learned that especially when it comes to such pressing issues, scientific research is not the only thing that counts. The scientific approach needs to be tailored to be used in conversations with government officials and policy makers in order to bring actual change.
But apart of a valuable learning experience, the internship was very fun giving me the chance to meet so many young, driven, and like-minded individuals from all over Europe. During the evenings and weekends, we would go explore the island, enjoying the sea and some breathtaking landscapes.

The Marine Mammal Programme is a one in a lifetime experience with likeminded individuals. Everyone is very helpful and passionate about their work. There is a lot of projects you can work on. You work mostly from Monday till Friday, and can hang out, rent a car and do fun stuff in the weekends with all the other interns. I loved the environment and made connections for a lifetime! Would definitely recommend this internship to anyone loving marine mammals, Greece and unique people from all over the world.

Archipelagos is a fantastic opportunity, but only if you're able to figure things out and work without having your hand held. You're able to work at your own pace, focus on projects that you're interested in, and receive support and education from a variety of supervisors from different backgrounds. But if you're lazy or you need other people to motivate you, it's very easy to start getting bored with the program.

On top of the interesting work, the locale and social aspects were incredible. I made a ton of friends and we did something interesting/different almost every single night. The food was amazing and if you're a fan of nature, you're gonna have an amazing time.

The opportunity to work with a Marine Conservation NGO in Greece is an unparalleled one. The best part of working with an NGO means that you are on the front-line of their work, and you not only get to witness science in action but be part of it too. It was refreshing to be doing work of evident value – and Archipelagos ensures that everyone gets to take part in work for all of their teams. This means that while my main role in the GIS team was to research and conduct analysis on various spatial data, I also partook in marine mammal boat surveys, terrestrial surveys and public-engagement exercises. While working with an NGO comes with its expected pitfalls, such as mild disorganisation and basic living conditions, these are the necessary trade-offs when doing such a placement.

Not only does working with many other interns from all over the world create a fun working and social atmosphere but living on Greek islands means that out-of-work hours were just as enjoyable. However, the best thing about this placement was how much I learnt. Daveron, the supervisor of the GIS team, ensured that all interns coming on to the team walked away from the placement – no matter how long – with a greater knowledge of geospatial analysis and GIS programs. It is Daveron’s drive of the GIS team which made it so successful; I’m extremely grateful for all that he, and everyone else at Archipelagos, taught me.

I have been an intern at Archipelagos for 6 months to complete my master program. I was part of the GIS team operating from the islands of Samos and Lipsi. Archipelagos offers unique opportunities in which interns can develop themselves to its widest extent. Despite no previous experience with fieldwork and data collection both on- and offshore, I have been able to deploy myself during many boat trips and operations using advanced equipment. Simultaneously to this full practical experience, I was able to develop myself on organisational aspects through the full responsibility I received. The environment and housing with many international students and staff is fun, instructive and truly unforgettable.
I have written a personal blog about many activities I did at Archipelagos:
http://archipelago.gr/en/gis-mapping-as-a-key-tool-in-marine-conservation/

This placement gives the opportunity to take part in so many different areas of interests and studies. I was primarily on the Marine Mammal team but they really allow you to join a variety of teams (so long as you're not taking over tasks from people who are primarily on that team) and I would even recommend it. I was often on about four teams and absolutely loved it. I recommend doing that because I found some people who decided to just stick with their one team struggled a bit, since depending on the weather or work necessary at that time there is not always full busy days with just one team. And the work opportunities provided were absolutely amazing, it gave me so many ideas for different ways I can help out and take part in conservation. The people you meet there are wonderful too - its great to get together with a group of like minded individuals from different countries.

During my time at Archipelagos as a marine mammal researcher, I was able to reaffirm my passion for marine mammal science. As a rising senior majoring in marine science, I came to archipelagos to try and find what I wanted to do following graduation. I was lucky to have found a passion in photo-ID work, and spent my days both on the boat and back at base analyzing my data and photos. Archipelagos provided me a platform where I learned how to be a leader, worked on my organization/time management skills, and was allowed to collaborate with other scientists . Besides working on my own project, I also had the opportunity to assist in land/ boat surveys, and help in other projects that weren't in my particular area of expertise. The marine mammal team supervisor constantly inspires us not only to be better scientists, but to be more of an environmentally conscious individual in society. Theres something special about being surrounded by a group of people who have the same passions as you do, working towards a common goal.

My experience at Archipelagos was a great one.
It is the perfect place if you want to meet lots of people involved in Conservation, coming from all over the world. Everyone there, including the staff, is very focused on their preservation goal.
You will see many animals, in a preserved and beautiful environment.
Be prepared for the living conditions which can be pretty basic, sometimes tough in winter with the wind and cold, but no worries, it is not the Costarican jungle! ;)
Also, if you like to be supervised closely, talk about it with the supervisors in the beginning. Otherwise, if you like to work independently, it is going to be perfect for you. They are open to new suggestions and new projects, so don't hesitate to go for it, and communicate about it.
Overall, I learnt many interesting things and met amazing people during this enriching experience.