Weekly Reflection #1

Kathryn Rice

Senior Project

Weekly Report

5/15/22

                     This week we were introduced to the center and its wonderful staff during our tour. We were

able to see all the amazing work being done to help these poor sea lions and seals. The moment during the

tour where I really felt deeply connected to our project was when I saw a measly baby sea lion named

Ronan who was suffering from malnutrition. The poor baby was never taught how to eat fish by his

mother and therefore didn't understand how to feed himself. The staff at the center were trying everything

they could do to teach him how to eat and were determined not to give up. This ignited a passion in me to

do my part to help these beautiful creatures. After having this amazing experience at the center we were

then sent to work a bit further out at the center’s kiosk. We were instructed in how to run the store and

inform people on the center’s mission. It has been such fulfilling work so far, getting to see kids’ faces as

we show them the sea lion videos or sell them a t- shirt. Although some days can be a bit slow and boring,

I still keep that first day in my mind so I can remember how much my work is affecting the animals. One

thing that has been surprising about my work is how many seals develop a disease called sea lion pox. It is

very similar to chicken pox in humans, and it was so shocking to see that on many of the creatures at the

center. Another surprise that Mallie and I have had this trip is the wildfire that almost got us!  

Hours Today: 7

Hours Total: 49