the party
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So so so so grateful for everyone who celebrated this milestone with champagne, tequila, and embarrassing photos from the field hahah 🖤 My wife who has been my biggest cheerleader, my family and friends who traveled across the ocean, my “paranymphs” who are my science sisters 🌊 , my friends here in Amsterdam who have shared in the triumphs and struggles, my Dutch family who have been so welcoming to me, my supervisors who have believed in me… it was surreal and unforgettable to have so many together in one evening. I missed my Curaçao gang and a few back from the states, but in true long distance fashion we’ll make up for lost time in the future 🥰 THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU for one hell of a party
the defense
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The defense starts with a 10 minute talk where you have the chance to explain your PhD work to the public. While I’ve slowly trained my friends and family to listen to my coral facts, it’s probably in their best interest that we are asked to only share the highlights hahah. The details are in the book anyway. After the presentation, everyone is asked to stand and the PhD committee comes in. One by one, six experts in my field asked me questions designed to spark discussion, but also challenged me to place my work in a broader framework. I remember at the start that I was jittery with anticipation, but slowly a sense of calm washed over me. I was standing on a strong foundation of knowledge from nearly 10 years of studying and of unwavering support from friends and family. The tension really broke when I laughed at myself when I said something to the effect of “predicting predictability”, and the whole room took a deep breath as we collectively agreed that the formality was stifling. As the story goes, I allegedly said the word “indeed” at least 10 times, which is 10 times more than I ever would in everyday speech 😂. After 45 minutes of questioning, the beadle arrives and announces that the time for questions is over. Saved by the bell, but in this case saved by a staff with bells and chimes that the beadle thumps against the floor when time is up. The committee retires to discuss, returns, and the PhD is delivered along with some kind words from my supervisors. The ceremony is closed and I got to walk out feeling extremely relieved, satisfied, and proud of myself.
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📸photos by @cindyjeurissen.nl
On 19 February 2026, I defended my PhD !! With the support of so many of my friends and my family, I finally crossed the finish line for this degree. When I moved to the Netherlands for my PhD studies, I came alone. I was afraid, but hopeful that this adventure would bring amazing people into my life. I wasn’t wrong, and I can now say I’m blessed with a beautiful family and community in my home away from home. I had to learn to trust myself to live out this dream I have to follow my curiosity about the natural world. While it hasn’t been easy, I’m endlessly grateful to have had such a life-changing opportunity. I learned so much. 🖤
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📸 photos by @cindyjeurissen.nl
Where the ocean meets the sky 🩵 From learning early on that their love story started shortly after Sarah moved to the Netherlands to hearing how their deep love for one another has moved family and friends, I can’t think of a single moment that wasn’t wrapped up in utter devotion & affection with Vera & Sarah. Their wedding day here in Columbus was nothing short of amazing. Family traveled, friends gathered, parents and kids alike danced, delicious homemade cake was had and it truly was a day to remember 🗺️
Photography: @carolinerosephotography
Brides: @ceserabeau & @akrys_9
Venue: @keltonhousemuseum
Food: @mazaheatery
Cake: @mckenzie_167
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I vow to cherish every moment I get to stand in your radiant light.
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Our warmest and most sincere gratitude to everyone with whom we shared our unforgettable day.
📷: thank you to the talented @carolinerosephotography for capturing these moments.
My adventure buddy turns one year old today 🐶 It took a while before her t-rex puppy phase was over and she started feeling more like our dog rather than a wild raccoon/mountain goat we let into our house 😂 I’m grateful for all the chaos though because she’s turned out to be a really sweet dog 💙
I’m grateful for this lil puppy, my future wife, and this fluffy barky teddy bear. Having a puppy around really reminds you to be patient through chaos, but also to make small moments really fun.
