Why did you decide to pursue a Master of Marine Affairs?

I studied physical sciences almost exclusively as an undergraduate, and I felt that I needed to build a knowledge base that included policy and law in order to be fully successful. I enjoy studying every aspect of the marine environment, not just biology or chemistry.

Why did you decide to come to UW’s SMEA for graduate school?

I chose SMEA because I had always wanted to study on the West Coast. SMEA is remarkably interdisciplinary, and flexible with classes; I can study any facet of marine affairs and I feel like I’m learning something meaningful that I will be able to put to use later in my career.

Are you doing a thesis or capstone project? If thesis, what are you writing your thesis about and why? If capstone, what is the project about?

I am a capstone student. We will be studying the relationship between harmful algal blooms and food security and community health in partnership with NOAA, and I am excited to get started. I studied algal blooms extensively as an undergraduate, and I’m ready to put that knowledge to use with an associated social science element.

What has been your favorite class at UW so far?

There are two I’ve really enjoyed. They were Environmental Law and U.S. Coastal and Ocean Law. I have never studied law before, and I find it fascinating. I’ve seen the direct effects of these laws in practice, and it is interesting to retroactively justify the work I have done.

What do you like most about SMEA?

I think the thing I enjoy most is our flexibility when it comes to your degree. I can take classes in almost any department on campus, and still find ways it ties back to the work I do in house. The location is a plus as well, being right next to the water has its perks.

What’s it like to live in Seattle? What do you do in your spare time?

Seattle is a big change from the Carolinas. I think the thing I enjoy most about this city is the diversity in food (and beer). Seattleites seem to enjoy both, and I have no problem with that. In my spare time I try to get out and explore the city, and I’ve met some interesting people in interesting places.

If you could design your ultimate job after graduating, what would it be and why?

I think I would enjoy returning to consulting. I like having a few different projects to work on at once, and I never got bored as the projects would come and go at pretty regular intervals. After this program, I hope to work on projects that involve both my physical science as well as social science and policy education.

What is your favorite form of marine life, and why?

I don’t really have a favorite form of marine life. I like a little of everything, from Cnidarians to marine reptiles. The way marine life has adapted is amazing, and there’s always something new to discover.