The Virginia Institute of Marine Science held its annual Marine Science Day event Saturday at its Gloucester Point campus, drawing over 1,000 people.

According to Kristen Sharpe, VIMS Assistant Director of Outreach and Engagement, the event’s first ever marine-related career fair was a great success with over 115 people visiting to learn about career options from 10 exhibitors. Some of these careers included wildlife photography, grant and financial support, education, and drone piloting.

Sharpe also said that many attendees were between 13-17 years old and several were drawn to Marine Science Day for the career fair. Another popular attraction was the vessel tours, another first for Marine Science Day. Throughout the day, attendees were also able to listen to 10-minute talks on various marine science topics, participate in educational crafts, compete in a costume contest and more.

The community art project also garnered a lot of attention and the resulting artwork will be di...