Meet NOAA IN FISH Intern, Jonathan Venable

Where did you grow up?

I grew up just north of Hartford in Rockville, Connecticut.

Where did you go to school and in what subject did you get your degree(s)?

Currently, I am an upcoming senior. I am working towards a bachelor's degree in biodiversity, ecology, and conservation with double minors in marine biology and geographic information systems at Jacksonville University.

How did you come to work at the Southeast Fisheries Science Center?

I am participating in the Inclusive NOAA Fisheries Internship Program, also known as IN FISH. The program sent me here to the science center for my summer internship!

What do you do at the science center?

I am working with Joe Serafy, Mandy Karnauskas, and intern Alyssa Therrien to conduct an independent 5-year review of the center's Ecosystem, Climate, and Stock Assessment Improvement program submissions and funded projects.

What do you like most about your position?

Being able to be around nice people! I have been able to soak up a lot of information from people here and my mentors. One of my goals is to work for NOAA. Everyone here has been willing to talk to me about their path to working here. They have also been willing to give me tons of career advice.

What advice would you have for someone interested in a career at NOAA Fisheries?

Get involved as much as you can! Gaining experience and making connections is always a great way to get you where you want to be in your career!

Is there a book, quote, or person that influenced you to be the person that you are today? Tell us why.

The quote that has influenced me the most is the saying, "If it doesn't challenge you, it won't change you." I say this because the challenges I have tackled so far in my career have made me a better scientist and person. Challenges have also opened up some amazing opportunities for me!

What do you like to do outside of work?

I enjoy going on walks, hiking, exploring new places, doing anything involving nature and the outdoors, spending time with friends, and meeting new people. Also, I recently started to get into photography which has been really fun!

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