Discover Catalina: Catalina Island Marine Institute

From the moment they stepped off the boat, the Discover Catalina students and leaders  Sarah Lantz, VWS Dean of Students, and Andrew Hamilton, science department faculty, spent their Unbounded trip surrounded by turquoise water and exploring its marine life. An overhead view during the day would show students bobbing in the water or kayaks gliding as people spotted lobsters or bright orange Garibaldi. A special night snorkel also showcased an array of creatures: eels, bioluminescent plankton, and more. When the students were not wearing wetsuits, they learned about the ecology or history of Catalina through various activities, including a hike overlooking the coast. Webb courses, such as AP Environmental Science and Evolutionary Biology, came to life through conversation about the island’s species, its plate formation, and the impact of astronomy on marine life. By the end, the group left with a newfound appreciation and curiosity about the ocean and all its wonders.