Job on the ship: To document the expedition through words and images and act as a liaison between the participating students and the scientists/crew.

How long have you been on the Atlantis? This is the second day.

How long have you been a scientist/crew member? This is my third year as a graduate student, but I would say I've been somewhat of a scientist since at least elementary school.

Where are you from? Chicago, Illinois

What's the most unusual thing you've seen on cruise? I considered going bungee jumping. Though I didn't actually do it, just considering it was strange enough! : )

What's the strangest thing you've ever eaten? An ostrich burger at The Taste of Chicago, raw octopus in Japan.

What's the strangest thing that you have ever done? One night the moon and stars were covered by clouds and I was standing near the edge of the ship. It was so dark that I literally could not see directly over the side. I couldn't distinguish between water and sky. It was just a black wall in front of me. Definitely a strange feeling of claustrophobia and vertigo all at once.

What's the scariest thing that's ever happened to you? I've had moments between waking and sleeping when my mind is conscious, but I couldn't move or speak no matter how much I tried.

If you didn't have this job, what would be your next job of choice? A supermodel, an accomplished author, a renowned chef -- I'm just waiting to be discovered! : )

What's the hardest thing to endure? My sophomore year in college -- the unhappiest time of my life.

What's the coolest place you've ever been? Scuba diving in a lake that had sunken "props" during my certification.