Meet Ocean Explorer Jhen Allison Seguiwan

OET proudly welcomes Jhen Allison Seguiwan to the Corps of Exploration as part of the Science & Engineering Internship Program. This internship program supports community college, undergraduate, and graduate students in building professional workforce experience and exploring STEAM-related careers that connect to research themes like robotics, ocean science, education, and exploration. Jhen is joining E/V Nautilus for our NA178 expedition as a seafloor mapping intern.

We sat with Jhen to learn more about her experience at sea and the path that led her to Nautilus.

Describe your role with OET.

I am currently aboard the E/V Nautilus as a Seafloor Mapping & Hydrography Engineering Intern for the Ocean Exploration Trust. I work with seafloor mapping data that helps scientists better understand the ocean floor and its features. Through hands-on experience with hydrographic and mapping technologies, including the EM 304 multibeam sonar system, I am learning how ocean exploration teams collect, process, and interpret data to create detailed maps of previously unexplored and poorly mapped areas. Being part of OET allows me to contribute to scientific discovery while developing values in marine technology and ocean research. It also gives me the opportunity to learn more about the ocean, which has always been such a big part of my life.

Can you tell us a little about your background? What influenced you as a child?

I grew up in American Samoa, where the ocean is a huge part of everyday life. My dad is a fisherman, and some of my favorite memories are spending time out at sea with him fishing, swimming, or simply enjoying the ocean. Those experiences sparked my curiosity about marine environments and eventually led me to study Environmental Science at Southern Utah University. Since then, I have turned my passion into action through projects related to coral reef conservation, ciguatera poisoning awareness, and community/school outreach, all of which have strengthened my commitment for protecting the ocean and sharing science with others.

When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?

Growing up, I had really big dreams. I wanted to be a nurse, scientist, veterinarian, and even join the Army. As I got older those goals slowly changed, and eventually I decided I wanted to be a pirate! I wanted to explore the ocean, search for treasure, and spend my days on a boat eating a ton of food. Looking back, I think I kind of got my wish. Through OET, I get to explore parts of the ocean that few people have seen, make exciting discoveries, and do it all while being a scientist. I may not have a pirate ship, but I think the E/V Nautilus is a pretty good alternative.

What would you consider to be your greatest challenge entering this field?

I believe my biggest challenge was leaving home and pursuing opportunities far from American Samoa. Many of the opportunities I was interested in seemed out of reach, and moving away for college was a big adjustment. There were definitely moments when everything felt overwhelming, but I always remind myself why I started and what my goals were. Looking back, I learned that some of the best opportunities come from stepping outside your comfort zone and taking chances on things that seem a little scary at first.

Do you have any advice for someone looking to follow a similar path?

Stay curious and do not be afraid to ask questions. Some of the most meaningful opportunities in my life happened because I introduced myself to someone, applied for something I was unsure about, or simply asked one more “silly” question. You never know where a conversation, mentorship, or opportunity might lead, so keep an open mind and be willing to learn from others!

What's next for your ocean studies and career?  

Once we finish this expedition, I will be participating in coral restoration efforts in American Samoa before heading back to Southern Utah University to complete my final year of college. More importantly, I am excited to take what I have learned aboard the E/V Nautilus to future conservation work and continue building my skills in ocean exploration, GIS, and marine science. I look forward to seeing where these experiences take me and how I can use them to support the communities and environments that have shaped me!