){kind=logo}
My Internship Experience in Bali’s Coral Reef Restoration Program
Interview with Serena: Coral Reef, Classroom, and Change
“Seeing the news about ocean pollution and coral reef destruction has always troubled me, and this internship allowed me to bridge the gap between my passion and taking meaningful action.” Serena, Environmental Law Sophia University Japan.
)
For the past five months, I had the incredible opportunity to work as a social media and content creation intern for a Marine Restoration Organization through Bali Internships Program. It was an experience that took me out of the classroom and into the beautiful waters of North Bali, where I had the chance to make a real difference in marine restoration and learn things I could never have imagined.
Discovering My Passion for Marine Restoration
Before heading to Bali, my expectations were straightforward—I wanted to dive. But this experience turned out to be far more than I imagined. I’ve always cared deeply about protecting our oceans, but I never had the chance to engage directly in coral reef restoration back in Tokyo. When I found this opportunity through the Bali Internships Program, I knew it was the perfect way to gain practical experience in marine conservation. Seeing the news about ocean pollution and coral reef destruction has always troubled me, and this internship allowed me to bridge the gap between my passion and taking meaningful action.
Day-to-Day Life as an Intern
My daily routine was a mix of writing and diving, keeping me both challenged and excited. Each week, I created content for LinkedIn about coral restoration and waste management, which required me to think creatively and stay focused, whether I was working on the beach or in my room. The real highlight, though, was diving every weekend for coral restoration. Despite being a beginner diver with only about 12 dives under my belt before arriving in Bali, the underwater tasks—like planting corals using cable ties—were initially overwhelming. But by the end of my internship, having completed around 44 dives, I felt much more confident and efficient.
)
What I Learned and Loved
One of the most valuable lessons I learned was patience. Coral restoration is a slow process, with corals growing only about 10 centimeters a year. This taught me that every small effort counts and that steady, consistent work is crucial. I also loved the flexibility of the internship, which allowed me to work from different locations and explore Bali’s diverse areas like Canggu, Ubud, and Nusa Penida during my free time. The close-knit community in Padangbai, where I stayed, and the evenings spent sharing stories and local arak (traditional liquor) are memories I’ll cherish forever.
Challenges and Growth
There were challenges along the way, too. At one point, my internet stopped working after I’d been in Indonesia for over three months, making it tough to stay connected despite my supervisor’s support. This obstacle taught me to adapt and be resourceful. Even though the internship wasn’t directly related to my major, it was incredibly rewarding. I gained insights into Indonesian environmental law and developed new perspectives that I’m excited to explore further in my studies.
Reflecting on My Time in Bali
Looking back, I am deeply grateful to Bali Internships for this incredible opportunity. It pushed me out of my comfort zone and allowed me to involve myself in a field I’m passionate about. I would highly recommend this experience to anyone looking to make a real impact while enjoying the beauty and culture of Bali. If I had to describe Bali in three words, I’d say: love, smile, and arak. The island’s warmth, friendliness, and unforgettable moments have left a lasting impression, and I’m excited to apply everything I’ve learned to my future.
)
By Billy Bagus
)
)
)