Despite some impressive snow in the Colorado Front Range, my travel to Fairbanks was surprisingly uneventful. Although it was dark as we flew into Fairbanks, I was still able to see miles upon miles of frozen rivers as we approached the airport. It was quite refreshing to step out of the airport into the brisk air, especially since the winter has been so mild in Boulder. We apparently arrived just after the cold spell broke (down to 50 F below!) and are in the middle of a “heat wave” (15 F below to 15 F above).
Watching the sunset at the Seattle Airport while I wait for my plane to Fairbanks
I failed at my attempts to sleep past 6 am due to my anticipation of meeting the rest of the PolarTREC team and with the realization that this is the farthest North I have ever been. I had to get outside and explore, even if it was dark and cold. I am somewhere in the neighborhood of 3,000 miles NW of Boulder in Alaska’s second largest city (about 30,000 people). This morning I stumbled upon the frozen Chena river that runs right through the downtown area. They actually cross-country ski and dog sled on the river!
At breakfast I started to meet fellow PolarTREC teachers. Instantly, the room was filled with positive energy as we all shared our excitement about being part of the PolarTREC program. I feel honored to be part of such a dedicated and passionate group of educators and researchers. Already, I feel extremely well supported and can’t wait to learn more. I am also proud to be a representing the Alexander Dawson School and thrilled at how supportive the administrations and fellow teachers have been during whole application and acceptance process.
We began to hear from past PolarTREC teachers and researchers today; I can’t wait to hear more. My head is full of questions. What kind of boots do you wear in the Arctic in May? Will I see grizzly bears? What will daily life be like at Toolik Field Station? How will I cope with sunlight all day and night? These thoughts are buzzing around my brain like fireflies; I can’t wait to learn more about the adventure that awaits me in May.