On Wednesday, May 7, students at Colonie Central High School had the unique opportunity to hear from Dr. Lily Dove, an oceanographer and postdoctoral fellow at Brown University.

Dr. Dove, who grew up along the coast of Florida, shared how her early experiences exploring the shoreline sparked a lifelong fascination with the ocean. That curiosity led her to study engineering at MIT, and later pursue a Ph.D. in Oceanography from Caltech. She reflected on how childhood passions can shape career paths, encouraging students to follow their own interests wherever they may lead.

Throughout her talk, Dr. Dove gave students a glimpse into the life of a research scientist—one that has taken her across all seven continents. She spoke about her fieldwork and expeditions, showcasing the tools oceanographers use to study the deep sea.

“One highlight of the visit was a life-size model ocean float that Dr. Dove brought with her,” said CCHS teacher Stacey Sebert. “Students were able to interact with the model, learning how it collects ocean data and contributes to larger climate and marine research. The hands-on demonstration sparked thoughtful questions and gave students a tangible connection to a complex and exciting field.”

Dr. Dove’s visit offered more than just facts—it provided inspiration, showing students the real-world applications of science and the possibilities that come with a passion for exploration.