Week 2 Sabrina Nogula

 Week two was all about getting into the rhythm of fieldwork and continuing to explore different areas within Environmental Health.

I helped set mosquito traps at four different locations and then returned to collect them and identify the specimens. Sorting through the trap contents was definitely more challenging than expected, there were so many insects that looked like mosquitoes at first glance, and it took time and patience to carefully sort and ID the right species. It's a process that really tests your attention to detail, but also makes you appreciate how much goes into quality surveillance work.

I also had the opportunity to shadow the Onsite Wastewater Treatment System (OWTS) team during a ride-along. We visited about ten sites with open permits and conducted inspections to make sure everything was progressing according to plan. It was really eye-opening to see how these inspections are done, and I learned a lot about the systems themselves, from how they’re designed to what inspectors look for in the field. It was also interesting to see the collaboration between public health, engineers, contractors, and homeowners to make sure everything is up to code and functioning properly.

It’s been a hands-on, learning-heavy week, and I’m excited to keep building on it!