Meet the 2022 Interns: Alexi Archer

Tell us the story of what sparked your interest in the environment, conservation, and/or whales and dolphins 

When I was younger, I spent a lot of time in crystal clear Caribbean waters. This allowed me to watch the animals beneath the water. Growing up on islands allowed me to understand the connection between our actions and the health of the ecosystem around us, as wells as our reliance on a harmonious relationship. Over time I began to want a career on the water because it seemed the easiest way to have a job I loved and do something that mattered.  

Why did you want to be an intern with WDC? 

When people would ask me what I would be when I grew up, I always said I would work in a marine mammal sanctuary. My goal was to be the one going out to help save injured marine mammals and help nurse them back to health. Stepping out into my first paid experience post-master’s degree, I saw this internship as an opportunity to explore a career in marine mammal rescue and education with hopes of gaining overall knowledge in what goes into marine mammal rescue and response and future rehabilitation efforts.

What are you most excited to learn/do during your internship? 

I’m most excited about gaining hands on experience and insight into marine mammal rescue and response efforts, particularly helping to develop outreach materials and overall coordination necessary to run the program. This internship will help me gain an insight into the career path of a marine mammal stranding biologist while gaining necessary experience in rescue and response, data collection, program management, and education.  

What is your favorite fact about marine mammals? 

Otters trap air bubbles in their fur to create an insulating layer when diving.