Effects of Plankton Driven Hypoxia on pH in Possession Sound, Washington

The Conference Curveball

ORCA, Everett Community College 2022-2023 Project & Presentation

ORCAPSSST_FinalPoster.pdf

I researched the effects of phytoplankton on dissolved oxygen and pH levels in Possession Sound, WA, through the ORCA program at Everett Community College. I worked in a four person team to collect field data, sort historical data, create data visualizations, write a scientific paper, and create a poster presentation. One of my key contributions was developing and editing sixteen figures from nineteen years of environmental data, revising multiple drafts based on peer and faculty feedback. This experience taught me the value of continuing to apply feedback and of working cohesively as a team towards a high-quality outcome.

We presented our research poster at ORCA’s Possession Sound Student Showcase and Talks (PSSST). We were then invited to give a ten-minute lightning talk at the 2023 National Marine Educators Association (NMEA) conference, which is where things got more challenging.

When the Tide Turned

Just before the conference, however, two of our co-presenters could not make it. We had designed and practiced a four-person talk, but we were suddenly missing half our team. Instead of withdrawing our submission, my teammate and I quickly revised our presentation and delivered the full talk ourselves. This scrambling experience showed a gap in our preparations, as we had only practiced our individual portions.

I now apply this experience to my collaborative projects. I ensure that each person practices both co-presenting and giving the full talk on their own so we are prepared for any scenario. This research project has set the foundation for how I approach teamwork, not only doing the research, but also building and facilitating systems that are flexible under pressure.

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