By Sofia Lara, Florida State University
Since my last blog post, I’ve officially traveled to Bonaire and begun the fieldwork component of my IDEA Grant research. I’ve completed two dives so far, each one bringing me closer to understanding both the coral reef ecosystem I’m studying and myself as a growing scientist. Being in the water, seeing these tropical reefs in person, and working directly with experts has shifted everything I learned in the classroom into a living, breathing reality.
Right now, I’m working closely with graduate student Marilla Lippert in the Rassweiler Lab to streamline data collection so that our work can support both of our ongoing projects. Our collaboration is giving me insight into the pace, communication, and coordination that real scientific research demands. During our most recent dive, I practiced underwater species identification for both coral and fish. I also helped lay out transects, place transect markers, and took vertical height measurements of coral patches—focusing on Acropora colonies. Every meter, I photographed the patches for later photo analysis. These tasks may seem technical, but each is deeply rewarding to me because I know they contribute to a greater goal: understanding how restored coral sites function ecologically in comparison to wild reefs.
One skill I’ve been steadily improving is my ability to identify species underwater. Before traveling to Bonaire, I spent time brushing up on fish and coral species found in the Caribbean; especially those relevant to reef health and reef restoration. Practicing identification in the field, especially in real-time underwater, has strengthened both my knowledge and confidence. I’ve also been reinforcing my understanding of scientific diving protocols to ensure that I am safe, efficient, and respectful of the ecosystems I’m working within.
If there’s one thing I’ve struggled with, it’s buoyancy. I’ve always found buoyancy a little intimidating—not because I’m not capable, but because I’m hyper-aware of how fragile the coral is and how important it is not to make contact. I’m working on this daily. I review my dive logs, reflect on each experience, and incorporate feedback from fellow divers. I’m giving myself grace as I improve, knowing that each dive builds my comfort and capability.
This project builds directly on my previous work with fish behavior annotation and CoralNet analysis, and it is already expanding my skills in ways I couldn’t have imagined. I’ve gone from annotating photos in a lab to taking those photos myself underwater—thinking critically about angle, clarity, and consistency. I’ve gone from identifying fish in recordings to seeing them dart between coral branches in real-time. I’ve gone from studying reef restoration in papers to seeing its successes and challenges up close.
Being surrounded by scientists, academics, and passionate researchers has been mentally fulfilling in a way that’s hard to describe. It’s grounding and inspiring to be around people who care about the same things I do. These moments, both underwater and on land, are shaping the kind of researcher and person I want to become.
This project is helping me build not just scientific skills, but a foundation of confidence. I’m learning how to show up in the field as someone capable, knowledgeable, and still eager to learn. I’m learning how to push through challenges, like buoyancy struggles or the nerves of dive prep, and come out of each experience stronger. I’m not just doing research—I’m becoming the kind of scientist I always dreamed I’d be.
That said, I’d be lying if I said it’s not a little overwhelming at times. Being surrounded by experts—people with years of experience, advanced degrees, and deep-rooted confidence—can make it easy to shrink yourself. There are moments where I feel the weight of inexperience and wonder if I’m doing enough or if I’m saying the right things. But this project is teaching me that growth doesn’t come from already having all the answers. It comes from showing up with intention, being open to learning, and letting each challenge sharpen your skills. Everyone starts somewhere, and there’s something really powerful about owning the fact that you’re still becoming. I’ve realized that being in the room, underwater on the reef, or contributing to a conversation—even with shaky confidence—means I’m already doing the work. And that’s more than enough to keep going.
Attached are some photos I have of the Island.. Hopefully will be following up with some underwater shots too next month!
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