Submitted by Anonymous on Sat, 07/26/2008 - 13:35
Forums
Bering Ecosystem Study 08

If this is repetitive, I apologize. I hit a key and my original message disappeared. I do not know if it was sent to you, or if it was somehow deleted.

Regardless, here is my situation and request. Currently, I am studying Biology at our local Community College. In January, I plan to transfer to the university with plans to major in Marine Biology. Someday, I would like to apply for a position on a Polar Trec team.

I enjoy the photos that you have posted of marine life, the scientific equipment, and the laboratory area. I also like the images your daily surroundings and activities aboard the USCG Healy such as the July 4th BBQ on the flight deck, the ship's bridge, dining area, and your room (complete with unmade bed). If at all possible, could you post more pictures showing us what daily life is like on the ship? I know that there is a gym some place and an area where movies are shown, but are these separate areas of the Healy, or are these multi-purpose areas. Also, are the bedroom/sleeping areas of the crew identical to yours or are theirs larger? Lastly, and I know that this may be somewhat tacky to ask, but is it true that the bathrooms and showers are combined and only about the size of an airplane bathroom? The only large ship that I have been on is the ferry between Wisconsin and Michigan, and its bathroom was very small. It must be a challenge if they are the same size on your research vessel, especially after 2-3 months at sea.

 

Thanks,

C.J.

Sun, 07/27/2008 - 00:32

Jillian Worssam

Hello CJ
Your questions are not repetitive, and I have been a bit lax in showing more of the vessel.   Personally I think the rooms, and all working areas as well as social areas are quite large.  I have been on a NOAA vessel and well, these accomodations are like suites.
Yes the bathroom is both a shower and toilet.  There is a door separating the two so that there can be economy of use when you have six people to a room.  And to be quite honest, the smaller space is perfect, if the boat is pitching or rolling, less room to be banged up. Theyare bigger than an airplane, and I never make my bed!
Tonight I have some free time so I will cruise a few of the common areas and get some more pictures to post.
I have not seen any of the crews quarters, but I do know that many are six to a room, where the scientists are three to a room with two rooms sharing the same head.  Tonigh was dinner and a movie, a second barbecue on the flight deck and then a movie in the hangar, it was perfect.
Before I go take pictures I would like to say that you might want to consider a career in oceanography, marine mammals, fisheries biologist to name a  few, lots brighter for career options. How about a biological oceanographer? I talked about Alexei in an early journal and that is his speciality.
I will try to get some pictures up tomorrow.
Thanks for following along
Jillian