On the first day of our service-learning trip, we got to the airport super early at 4:00 a.m. So, we were up before the sun!
Pa’Ti Mar – Coral Restoration
After arriving in San Juan, we headed to Pa’Ti Mar to help with coral reef restoration. When we first got there, we learned all about their mission and discovered they are the only organization in the area doing this kind of important conservation work. After the introduction, we split into three different groups. One group made concrete coral bases used for reef restoration, another planted mangroves to help protect the coastline, and the third cleaned water tanks, painted, and changed the water to support the organization’s operations.
Once we finished our work, we got to go snorkeling on the coral reef, where we saw sea turtles, sea urchins, colorful parrotfish, and even stingrays. They really appreciated our work, and we were able to put our handprint in paint on their water tank and sign it. The Ryan Nece Foundation was able to leave a permanent mark on their organization. It was an unforgettable experience and an amazing way to see the impact of the conservation work firsthand!
San Juan Community Library – Entrance Sign
When we checked into the hotel, we had a brief moment to chill (for which we were very grateful) before heading to the library! Once we got to the San Juan Community Library, we were tasked with restoring the mosiac sign in front with new paint and the transformation was undeniable. The sign began chipped and aged, and we made it look brand new! It was a privilege to learn about the library and how it has the largest amount of resources in the community, so our work on the sign made a large impact.
Mrs. Connie Estades, the library’s Executive Director, was generous enough to get us a popular Puerto Rican pastry, and we got to look through books and see all the library had to offer. After the library, we headed to Old San Juan for dinner, where we ate at a 60s-themed diner which had the best breakfast sandwiches. The city was beautiful, with colorful architecture and cool statues. We successfully convinced Ms. Krystle to let us get ice cream too!
7 Quillas – Understanding Turtles / Night Patrol
After treating ourselves to some delicious ice cream, we made our way to the beach for an unforgettable experience learning about leatherback sea turtles and hoping to catch a glimpse of some making their journey to the ocean through the work of 7 Quillas. We discovered the impact of light pollution and how something as simple as artificial light can disorient baby sea turtles, preventing them from finding the sea foam which helps them find the ocean. While walking along the beach, we came across real turtle nests, which made everything feel so much more real. While we didn’t get to witness any baby turtles emerging or sea turtle moms laying their eggs, but the knowledge we gained made the experience just as rewarding. The sound of the waves and the peaceful silence of the night gave us a moment to reflect on the day and the importance of protecting these incredible creatures and their habitat.
We ended the night heading back to the hotel, ready to sleep off our very early 4am wake up call. Ready for day 2!!!!
Student Authors
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San Juan Service-Learning Trip: Day 2 Recap
San Juan Service-Learning Trip: Day 3 Recap
