Tessa Rock
Quahog Bowl, 2015-2018
Where are you currently working, and what do you do?
Florida Fish and Wildlife Research Institute. I work as a phytoplankton taxonomist identifying harmful algal species in Florida waters.
In what way(s) did participating in the NOSB influence your academic or career path?
It really gave me an eye-opening experience of just how much there is to study about the ocean and how applicable different fields of study can be. It also taught me how to trust my gut, how to work on a team, and how to problem-solve. It was one of the highlights of my high school years.
Have you been or are you still involved with the NOSB in some way post-high school?
While I was in college, I helped with the NorEaster Bowl as a Rules Judge.
What skill(s) did you gain from your participation in the NOSB that you still use today?
I still use the problem-solving skills that I developed while on my high school’s NOSB team. I think through the different subjects I have learned, sort through the facts, and then justify my decision with evidence. But if I am unsure of my answer, I seek out others with more experience to ask for their opinion.
Is there a specific NOSB memory that has stuck with you over the years?
When we won against a team we had never beaten before and made it to finals.
Looking back on your NOSB participation, what had the most lasting impact on your life? (Does not have to be career related.)
My teacher (our coach) who got the team started. And he continues at his new high school to lead a team. He encouraged me to study the ocean, and I credit his belief in me with kick-starting my career. After all, my first science fair project was about phytoplankton thanks to his advice, and now my entire career is about phytoplankton.
If you could share one reason why the NOSB matters and should continue to impact future students, what would it be?
It encourages students to learn about our planet in a friendly, competitive way. It’s such a unique experience that can open doors for high schoolers.
