MANALAPAN, N.J. — Cooper Pollack, a rising junior at the Marine Academy of Science and Technology (MAST), received a full scholarship to participate in the prestigious Wild Whales Voyage offered by Deep Green Wilderness. This highly selective three-week expedition accepts only six students from across the country each year.
From July 21 through August 10, Cooper will sail aboard the 84-foot schooner Orion through the Salish Sea and Johnstone Strait off the coast of British Columbia, Canada. There, he will assist in field research focused on cetacean ecology, studying marine mammals such as orcas (killer whales), humpback whales, harbor porpoises and minke whales. The program combines sailing, snorkeling, hiking and environmental science education to promote marine conservation and foster youth environmental leadership.
Pollack, who is from Manalapan, N.J., first learned about the opportunity from his marine biology teacher and mentor at MAST, Clare Ng, who encouraged him to apply. “Ever since I was younger, I have always felt connected to the ocean and water,” Pollack said. “My dream is to work for NOAA and become a marine biologist. I’ve always been drawn to marine life, and this is a huge step toward that goal.”
In his application, Pollack detailed his passion for ocean conservation, his involvement in MAST’s Marine and Environmental Science Club, and his commitment to scientific research. He spent nearly a full day thoughtfully responding to questions about his accomplishments, challenges and leadership experiences.
“The fact that they only select about ten students nationwide made being chosen feel surreal,” he said. “It’s hard to put into words how thrilled I am. This program is everything I’ve ever hoped to do.”
While Pollack has gained extensive research experience through school programs and camps, this will be his first time sailing and snorkeling in such a remote and ecologically diverse setting. “I’m especially excited to study orcas,” he shared. “They’re incredibly intelligent with complex social behaviors, and I’ve always wanted to see one in its natural habitat. I know this experience will challenge me in the best way possible and help shape who I want to become.”
His family and school community are thrilled by the opportunity. “My mom is proud but a little nervous about me being gone for three weeks,” he said with a smile. “My siblings helped convince her to let me apply, and all my friends and teachers can’t wait to hear about it when I get back.
“This is more than a trip—it’s a reminder to myself that passion and hard work do pay off,” Pollack said.
About Deep Green Wilderness
Based in Seattle, Deep Green Wilderness is a nonprofit organization that inspires youth to become stewards of the ocean through expedition-based education. The Wild Whales program combines scientific research, marine biology and seamanship to provide students with a once-in-a-lifetime immersive experience.
About Monmouth County Vocational School District
MCVSD operates six full-time Career Academies including the Academy of Allied Health and Science, Academy of Law and Public Safety, Biotechnology High School, Communications High School, High Technology High School and Marine Academy of Science and Technology. Each welcomes students as freshmen and retains those students through their senior year of high school, for a focused learning experience that helps them take meaningful steps toward their college and career goals.
MCVSD also operates more than 30 shared-time programs, a Career Center for students with special needs and adult programs. Questions about the admissions process for the MCVSD Career Academies or any other career and technical education program offered by MCVSD should be directed to applications@ctemc.org.