The whole process of applying to PolarTREC has been a bit like a dream; the kind that you don't want to wake up from. I keep saying to myself: "Is this for real?" "Am I really getting this opportunity to travel on an ice breaker ship and do research with a scientific team?" "And really, I get to research polar bears?!?" At home, I am often glued to the TV shows that follow researchers in the field and covet their experiences. I am still pinching myself to make sure that I am not dreaming!
Currently, I am in Alaska for a week of orientation and training on how to use the communication tools that we will use while in the field so that I can share my experiences with you. I also get the opportunity to meet teachers who have been through, and survived, other research projects. The more I learn about this program, the more excited I get and wish that October was closer. Also, since I get to study such a famous organism, I am now officially known as the "Polar Bear Girl." I am going to be spending a good portion of the next 7 months becoming an expert on ursus maritimus (polar bears). Until then, you can learn about them along with me - a good place to start is the encyclopedia of life. Click here to get started on your research.
Here in Fairbanks, I feel like I am already starting to live out my favorite TV shows. The Yukon Quest, a 1,000 mile sled dog race, has it's endpoint here. The first musher and his team of dogs are expected to come into town tomorrow. Check it out here.
Also, apparently tonight we might get an opportunity to see an ice road! I really do feel like I am on the Discovery Channel! Later this week, we have basic field safety training - watch out Bear Grylls! Tune in tomorrow to see the adventures of "Polar Bear Girl" - and by then I'll have learned how to post pictures!