From Mission College to the Open Ocean: How STEMSEAS Changed Two Students’ Lives

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

SANTA CLARA, CA -- For Kaylee Ly, the ocean has always been a place of wonder - mysterious, vast, and teeming with unknown life. She’s not alone; fellow Mission College student Jen Valenzuela also found her way back to the sea after a winding journey through art and advertising, ultimately rediscovering her passion for marine science.

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For Kaylee, that childhood curiosity deepened during her time at Mission College, where a single marine biology class opened the door to a world of scientific discovery and opportunity. That class, taught by Mission College Professor Jean Replicon, wasn’t just a routine course - it was a springboard. Through hands-on field trips and immersive experiences, Kaylee and fellow student Jen Valenzuela found themselves on a path that would eventually lead to STEMSEAS, a National Science Foundation-funded program that gives undergraduates the rare chance to live and work aboard research vessels, learning directly from scientists while gaining invaluable hands-on experience at sea.

“I got to participate in field trips that allowed me to experience the various jobs in marine biology and work with professionals hands-on,” Kaylee recalled.

Similarly, Jen’s journey back to marine science began after completing a degree in Creative Advertising. She returned to Mission College for Biology, followed by the Geospatial Tech and Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) programs at Mission's sister campus, West Valley College. She then became involved with Minorities in Shark Sciences, conducting shark surveys. "I discovered I had inherent abilities to learn, flow, and adapt to the tasks and challenges involved with field work, and I absolutely loved it! I’d found my calling and was hungry for more opportunities.”

One class led Kaylee to a study abroad trip in Costa Rica and, eventually, to STEMSEAS, a program she discovered thanks to a reference from her professor. For Jen, reconnecting with Professor Replicon and earning a scholarship for her Tropical Ecology Field Studies course in Costa Rica set her up for success in marine research and prepared her to thrive in STEMSEAS.

At first, the idea of applying felt intimidating for both students. Kaylee admitted she was nervous and full of doubt.

"I was extremely nervous about applying,” she said, “but I am so glad that I did.” Similarly, Jen knew she had to seize the opportunity. “Discovering STEMSEAS and the accessibility they provide for offshore experiences was my a-ha moment. I knew I’d be kicking myself if I didn’t put in the effort to apply!”

Kaylee was selected for a June 1–11 expedition aboard the R/V Atlantis, sailing from San Diego, California to Dutch Harbor, Alaska. Jen joined the same cruise, ready to gain hands-on offshore experience and connect with mentors who could guide her toward a marine tech career.

Once aboard, the experience exceeded every expectation. The days were filled with engaging lectures, hands-on science activities, and meaningful interactions with mentors and crew. Students participated in launching CTD sensors, tied nautical knots, toured the ship’s facilities, and developed independent research projects to present in a science-fair format. Thinking back, Jen highlighted several moments that particularly resonated with her.

Both students also shared awe over touring the HOV Alvin. “

The learning extended beyond scientific tools. Kaylee was surprised and encouraged by how open and relatable her mentors were.

“Some of my scientist mentors would be honest and say, ‘I have no idea if this is correct!’ or ‘I don’t have a clue what we’re doing today,’” she recalled. 

For Jen, late nights on the bridge were equally illuminating.

“The crew provided useful insights on their experiences in maritime work, including the nitty gritty stuff like work rotations, benefits, and credentials… I already felt a sense of assurance that I’d fit right in working aboard a research vessel.”

Both Kaylee and Jen found that sharing the voyage with peers from similar educational backgrounds reinforced their sense of belonging in STEM.

The journey gave both students something even more powerful than knowledge: confidence. Like many students from community colleges, Kaylee had struggled with self-doubt about whether she belonged in STEM.

“[Because of STEMSEAS,] I have realized that my dream careers aren’t far from my reach,” she said. “[I] just need to keep working and rise up from any failures instead of letting them weigh me down.” 

 

Similarly, Jen encourages others to take chances. “The best thing you can do is to put yourself out there! If an opportunity interests you, apply for it. Don’t let hesitation, doubt, or imposter syndrome hold you back. There’s nothing worse than wasting time and energy wondering ‘what if’ and having regrets.”

Both students’ stories highlight the profound impact of STEMSEAS. They learned that success in science isn’t about knowing everything - it’s about curiosity, resilience, and the courage to take that first step.  Kaylee hopes to one day return to the ocean as a scientist, perhaps even aboard Alvin itself.  Jen is pursuing marine tech opportunities, certifications, and preparing to present at the American Geophysical Union annual meeting, a first for her.

Their journeys are a powerful reminder that a single class, a single mentor, and a single decision to apply can change everything.

Learn more about STEMSEAS and how to apply at stemseas.org.

Benjamin Demers
Director of Marketing and Public Relations
[email protected]