Quinlan Yaoch

Tell us about your work/research. What kinds of things do you do?

I am a second-year undergraduate majoring in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) Disciplines at Palau Community College (PCC). In addition to being a full-time student, I also work as a lab assistant at the PCC Mesekiu Science Lab (“mesekiu” is the Palauan name for dugong), and I am the president of the PCC STEM Club. My college life consists of attending classes three days a week, with the remaining time spent at the science lab either assisting my science instructors’ labs or completing my assignments. There would be instances where I can assist field trips for various science courses, either to the rock islands, waterfalls, or research centers such as the Palau International Coral Reef Center. As for the STEM Club, I cooperate with the other officers to conduct fundraisers to fund club activities we would like to do such as tree plantings, coastal cleanups, and trips to the rock islands.

What sparked your initial interest in your career?

Media had such a profound effect in sparking my initial interest in science. The science television programs I frequently tuned in to as a child, such as those produced by Discovery Science™ and National Geographic™ as well as television shows such as "The Big Bang Theory", were not only highly entertaining but also quite captivating and that they influenced my early fascinations with meteorology, astronomy, biology, and other fields. My visible interest in science also prompted my mother to give me telescopes and microscopes during many Christmases. My science journey dwindled during my high school years as I decided to focus more on business. However, as I was concluding my time in high school, I realized I was not suited for business. Additionally, seeing Christopher Nolan’s film "Interstellar" reignited my interest, and prompted me to consider a career in physics or mathematics. This resulted in my decision to enroll as a STEM Disciplines major where I plan to gain as much knowledge and experience as possible before actually pursuing a more focused field such as physics.

Who influenced you or encouraged you the most?

My mother has been my biggest supporter throughout all these years. Knowing me better than everyone else, she is highly aware of my fascination with science and has continued to encourage me to pursue it. Along with my mother are my high school and college science instructors who have instilled in me courage.

What element of your work/study do you think is the most fascinating?

The most fascinating experience I have had was during a rock island retreat I did a couple of years ago. It was just after sunset, and I was on a kayak with a friend not too far from the beach. I decided to lie down and watch the night sky, and as I did, I had the most spectacular view. The absence of city lights along with a cloudless night made the night sky crystal clear. I could easily identify the details of the moon as well as its backdrop – the star-studded galactic equator of our Milky Way galaxy. It was an unforgettable sight.

How did you get involved with the Ocean Exploration Trust?

I first learned of this program during a meeting with Ms. Megan Cook and her OET colleagues when they visited Palau during an expedition partner planning trip. After much consideration, my college instructors encouraged me to apply for the Ocean Science internship role in these first Palauan deep ocean expeditions.

What other jobs led you to your current career?

I am still in the process of finding the career I truly want to pursue. I have a few ideas, but I want to gain more professional experience to base my decision off of. I thank God for blessing me with this internship opportunity where I hope to gain as much knowledge and experience as I possibly could.

What are your degrees and certifications?

If the Lord is willing, I will be graduating in Spring 2025 with an Associate of Applied Science degree in STEM Disciplines.

What are your hobbies?

I usually enjoy watching videos of various topics on YouTube (i.e., astronomy, physics, music, social commentary, gospel, and video essays). I have been enjoying Neil DeGrasse Tyson’s ‘Startalk’ series on YouTube. Other than that, I enjoy reading scripture, attending church activities, and occasionally drawing, baking, and taking long walks.

What advice would you give someone who wants to have a career like yours?

I have multiple. First, identify your strengths and your desires. It is important to know what you are good at, but it is also equally important to know what you want in life. Pursuing a career in STEM is no easy task as it may be exhausting, time-consuming, and expensive. 

Second, try to get experience (i.e., my Ocean Science internship for the Palau segment Nautilus expedition). You never truly know what a career is like until you try it. If you truly want to pursue a career in STEM, congratulations! 

My third advice would then be this: do not do it alone. Any field of science, whether it is biology or physics, encourages people to work together. It is important to have a support system, because it may be overwhelming at times. If you find your strength through religion, that is great! When I feel overwhelmed, I pray to God and then remind myself of these two verses: Philippians 4:6-7 New International Version (NIV), "Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ."; Matthew 6:34 NIV, "Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own." 

Lastly, if it helps, think differently. Do not limit yourself.