12 May, 2003

Although "arctic" training in southern California seems a bit incongruous, I bit the bullet and traveled to La Jolla to meet my Principal Investigator, Jim Swift of the Scripps Institution of Oceanography.

It was especially satisfying to visit Scripps this year as the institute is celebrating its first century of oceanographic exploration, research, and discovery. As a result, there are many special activities planned throughout the year- some of which I was able to experience- that describe the history, science, people, ideas, and technology of Scripps since its founding in 1903.

Originally established as a small research station for scientists and students to study marine organisms along the coast of southern California, Scripps has expanded its mission to become a leader in multi-disciplinary studies around the world. So I count myself fortunate to have my own behind-the-scenes tour of Scripps by Jim Swift and the other oceanographers and technicians that you'll meet later this week.

The beach north of Scripps.

The pier at the Scripps Institution of Oceanography in La Jolla, California.