"I've always wanted to work with sea turtles and do research specifically on them, but the opportunities to do so are few and far between. Although I have been fortunate enough to have experience with an aquarium that houses many lovely turtles, I am grateful that this project has allowed me to build off what I already knew and learn even more. Getting to be an ambassador within my community here in St. Augustine for some of my favorite marine animals is such a good feeling." - Amanda Gatshall

"The sea turtle project has provided me with important field and research skills. It has given me many opportunities to improve my science research methods and science communication. I would not be who I am today without it. It has helped me grow as a scientist." - Gwenyth Evans

"Without Dr. M and this amazing sea turtle project I wouldn’t be as determined as I am. I wouldn’t be as capable in the science field. This project has provided me with experience beyond any expectations especially at an undergraduate level. Because of this research I was able to complete the honors program and graduate with it in my diploma and resume. Without this project I likely would have had to drop the whole program. Because of this research I was able to attend multiple conferences exposing me to other likeminded scientists and professionals, granting me connections with others that would not have been possible otherwise. The exposure to the conferences enhanced my communication skills, my capability to spread knowledge about our sea turtle population, and grow new bonds and friendships with others on the team. Without this project I would not have so readily been able to interview well and have many entries on my resume to show my extensive experience out in the field and on a large team project. Without this research I would not have my job. Without this research I wouldn’t be working on a manuscript and having a potential publication so early on in my career. Without this research I wouldn’t have met one of the best professors at the college who dives head first into making sure that all his students are successful and can accomplish whatever they set their minds to. Without Dr. M my time a Flagler would’ve been just that. A normal college degree with no direction. Thanks to this research and especially to you Dr. McGinley I’ve been incredibly successful in my next steps of life, I have come out of college with experience and memories that will never be forgotten and I could never be more grateful to a school for hiring you. I hope they can show you proper appreciate that is in line with the understanding of what kind of major impact you have made. And that without you Flagler is just the same as any other college." - Avery Cogley

"The sea turtle project has helped me tremendously. From providing me important field and research experience to furthering my love and dedication in the field. Today, as a college graduate I am so grateful to have been apart of such an amazing and ever growing project. One that I can say has helped me gain important skills and experience that I use in my professional field today as a Protected Species/ Marine mammal and fisheries observer working for the federal and state governments. McGinleys guidance and and mentoring has helped mold me into the scientist I’ve always wanted to be! This project has and continues to impact me everyday and Ed McGinley is a wonderful mentor and continues to guide his students in positive directions with this project and many others! Thank you McGinley for everything you do."  - Jasmine Sllvennoinen

"The sea turtle for me has only increased my passion for conservation and for the marine life. Before I started my first semester, I got the opportunity to see hatchlings go off towards the ocean and it has brought me great joy and happiness to be given this opportunity to do research for the turtles in our area to do good for them and be their voice. I have so many great memories from being involved with the project and I can't wait to continue to make more memories." - Angela Martin

"The turtle project has given me so much hand on research experience. This includes both going out in the field and drawing conclusions from the data that’s collected. Working closely with Dr. McGinley has opened my possibilities and curiosity. Dr. McGinely is every open to students exploring their own ideas for the project and getting involved in any way possible. Getting to go to several conferences and explain the work we’ve been doing and our findings is exciting, fun, and a way for me to be exposed to other peoples research. I am extremely grateful for being able to be apart of this project and do not plan on leaving the project as long as long as I’m a student here!" - Lilli Longo