Our last morning began with our usual data collection – space use and Kathleen’s underwater video observations as well as surface observations. It was a relatively quiet session from both perspectives. But we did get a few circle swims by Mr. French and the adult females each had their calves in either echelon or infant position.
After another yummy breakfast, we reviewed the panoramic photos for positions for about an hour then went to visit the Mayan Jungle. We all had a blast with the zip lines and finished up in the zoo area where we met some monkeys and sloths – even some baby sloths! They were very cute.
Our time in the ‘jungle’ was longer than expected, which meant a swift lunch before we jumped aboard the Nicholas for a last snorkel. We took a very short boat ride to the Bear’s Den, which is just to the NE of Anthony’s Key. The relatively long ground swell decided for us to have a short snorkel. We had about an hour and a half of free time before we met in the classroom to finish up some panoramic photo review and then had dinner.
We shared a delicious chocolate cake dessert to celebrate the four graduating seniors and several birthdays surrounding the week we were together on Roatan.
After dinner, we played a resounding game of Jeopardy – the special DCP/RIMS-AKR version! Sabrina and Brie were the “big winners” of the game. Below are our last reflections for the week.
Alia – This study abroad trip was extremely academically rewarding, and I cherish each moment I spent with everyone here.
Alicia – I will forever be grateful for the experiences I had here and the bonds I’ve made with people.
Brie – I am very proud to be a part of this group, especially seeing how much everyone has grown.
Charles – It was so much fun here and I really enjoyed it.
Dallas – I loved every single experience I was given this week and I hope I get my reflections done.
Erika – I’ll see you in 2026, Roatan.
Felice – So thankful to have had experienced Roatan for a second time. This time with less fear and more accomplishment.
Jose – I loved Roatan not just for its landscape but for the people and the beautiful moments. But, I don’t like the tarpons.
Mario – This truly was an experience I will never forget. I hate to wave goodbye.
Megan – Love knows not its own depth until the hour of separation. It’s not goodbye but sea you later.
Nezi – I’m so glad to have connected with everybody here and on that note, Nezi out.
Sabrina – I will cherish every moment I have had in Roatan, but I will especially cherish the relived memories I created with Brie, since she’s graduating.
Sara – Treetops and ocean floors, magnificent sights all around galore, one more night what more may we sea, what a dream oh wait it’s reality.
Tesa – I have loved every moment with all of these amazing people and so grateful to have been given the opprtunity to get out of my comfort zone and grow in knowledge and self.
Winter – Why was Pavlov’s hair so soft? He conditioned it.
Melissa – It was a great week and I will miss all my minions. And a monkey stole my hat.
Heather – Successful week. Happy Graduation Graduates!
Manon – I’m glad everybody enjoyed the week and I hope everyone goes home with good memories.
Stay tuned for a summary recap of both weeks in the next day or so.
Tomorrow, we all travel home.
Cheers
StMU M&Ms