Experience Summary
For the last five years of my life I have dedicated myself to exploring the different fields and ecosystems involved in marine biology.
As a college freshman I started by working in a Fish Ecologist's laboratory examining otoliths to map the age, growth, and distribution of fish. From there I was accepted into an island semester program where I had the opportunity to live off of a marine reserve for six months. Before heading to the island to study marine ecosystems, I became a certified diver of the American Academy of Underwater Sciences. With my AAUS diving certification I was able to become a lead diver at the USC Wrigley Institute for Environmental Studies on Catalina Island. On Catalina Island I was able to spend each day in the field, exploring different habitats. I focused on Ichthyology, Phycology, Pelagic and Benthic Ecosystems, and an independent project while on the island.
After Catalina, I was accepted to a one year study abroad program in Australia where I had the opportunity to study coral reef systems. In Australia I became a research assistant for an Ichthyology professor where I examined the ecosystem of the Wivenhoe Dam. I also traveled to several islands off the coast of Eastern Australia, researching the different habitats and organisms within those regions.
I also held several jobs in order to pay for all my collegiate expenses. These jobs taught me the value of customer service, effective communication skills, and the importance of team dynamics.
Upon graduating, I spent six months traveling to various countries exploring different cultures and marine ecosystems. I have now moved to Florida in order to be closer to family while pursuing my career in marine biology.