Chelsea Hurtado
St. Olaf College
Research Mentor: Steve Rubin and Eric Grossman
Project: Fish Behavior in Skagit Bay: Influence of Eelgrass Presence
My time at CICOES has been a life-changing experience that has not only enhanced my knowledge but also helped shape new goals for my future. As a first-generation student, this research opportunity was a major milestone that wouldn’t have been possible without the unwavering support of my mentor and CICOES. Their guidance, encouragement, and understanding made this journey truly impactful.
Throughout my research on fish behavior in Skagit Bay, I gained valuable skills, from using BORIS for video analysis to identifying fish species and conducting fieldwork on boats. But more than the technical knowledge, this experience opened my eyes to the incredible opportunities that Seattle has to offer. CICOES has inspired me to pursue a career in marine research along with my passion for animal behavior, with Seattle now playing a central role in my future aspirations.
I am deeply grateful for the chance to be part of this research community, and I look forward to building on the knowledge and passion I’ve gained here, hopefully continuing my journey in the Pacific Northwest.
Project Introduction
Research Poster
