Charting a New Course: Coastal Environmental Science Student Interns with Naval Meteorology and Oceanography Command
November 05, 2025
When most people think of Coastal Environmental Science, they imagine fieldwork along the shoreline or research in a lab. But for LSU student Paris Ally, the summer of 2025 revealed that her major could lead to opportunities far beyond what she first imagined.
Through the Naval Research Enterprise Internship Program (NREIP), Paris joined the Naval Oceanographic Operations Command at Stennis Space Center, Mississippi, where she explored how environmental science supports real-world naval operations.
Learning the Science Behind Naval Operations
“My aim was to assist the Naval Oceanographic Operations Command and learn about the operational side of the Navy,” Paris said. “I worked with the Undersea Warfare (USW) team on their daily production and helped develop radar sensor information.”
In the process, she mastered new tools such as ArcMap, Drift Probability, and Builder, strengthening her technical and analytical skills.
Lessons Beyond the Classroom
The internship offered more than just technical growth—it changed how Paris viewed her future.
“The most meaningful lesson I learned was to be open to new and different elements—even if they’re outside your comfort zone or prior knowledge.”
Her experience demonstrated that environmental science can play a vital role not just in conservation, but also in technology, defense, and global operations.
Clarifying Career Goals
By the end of her internship, Paris felt more confident than ever in her career direction.
“This internship was exactly what I needed to solidify my career path and make me feel confident in my ambitions,” she said.
Through her work with Navy professionals, Paris gained valuable mentorship and insight into the many paths available within her field.
Advice for Other Students
Paris encourages other LSU students to apply for opportunities—even ones that seem out of reach or unrelated at first.
“Just apply. I wasn’t originally going to apply because I didn’t think I’d get it—but you never know.”
She also recommends exploring programs like NREIP and the SMART Scholarship, which provide hands-on experiences that bridge the gap between academics and professional application.
A Reminder to Explore the Unexpected
Paris’s story is a powerful reminder that career paths aren’t always linear. Her summer with the Navy showed that a major in Coastal Environmental Science can lead to innovative, global, and mission-driven work—proving that sometimes the best opportunities are the ones you never saw coming.
About the LSU Career Center
Our team is committed to ensuring every student has ample opportunities to gain experience, grow their network, and communicate their aptitude for a chosen career long before graduation. We believe LSU students are unparalleled in their potential to step into leadership, solve problems, and elevate the workforce for the benefit of all.