My Arctic Dreams
20 April, 2025
This trip is something I never thought I could actually achieve. I never imagined I’d belong in the same space as real scientists and Arctic explorers, especially at 16, and I still can't fully wrap my head around that, but soon I’ll be completely surrounded by them.
When I was little, I used to run around dressed as an astronaut and explorer—the orange space suit and all—making forts out of cardboard boxes and getting lost in the woods like I was on some great expedition. And now I’m going to be out on a boat, taking photos of polar bears and puffins—the kind of animals I’ve only ever seen in National Geographic. There’s even a chance I’ll collect algae samples for NOAA and tag Greenland sharks, which still absolutely blows my mind.
I won’t lie, though—I’m incredibly nervous. And sure, I’ve traveled all over the United States, from one corner of the map to the next, but I’ve never even been overseas before. And now, all of a sudden, I’m trying to figure out how many thermal layers to pack and writing checklists on my phone for snorkeling gear. It's a complete and total shift.
Lately, I've had this looming feeling of impostor syndrome that's suddenly creeping in hard. I’ve had moments where I’ve wondered if I even deserve this, or if I’ll just end up being a burden when I get out there.
But the thing is, I haven’t had to go through any of this alone. I've had Ashley Bugge walk with me through the steps, having patience and answering all my questions (no matter how small). It has truly made all the difference. She’s been such a positive force on this trip and has provided me with huge relief.
Plus, through the Seabirds, I’ve connected with a 17-year-old who’s been feeling a lot of the same things I have. It’s been comforting to have someone to relate to—someone who’s also nervous, excited, and figuring it all out in real-time. It’s also just nice knowing I’ll be traveling with someone close to my age.
This entire thing is a giant step out of my comfort zone and into the kind of life I always dreamed about but never thought I’d be brave enough to pursue. And now, with each day that gets closer, I’m feeling more prepared, more hyped, and just truly thankful. It’s unbelievable. I can’t wait to meet everyone next Sunday on Zoom. I’m just beyond grateful for my parents, and everyone in the Seabirds, helping me get to a point where I can call myself an actual Arctic explorer.
