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

I studied Marine Affairs & Policy in Undergraduate at University of Miami. I had originally started out as a Marine Biology major, but after a couple years, I realized that what is done with scientific knowledge is just as important as the science itself. I saw this while studying abroad in the Galapagos, where I was exposed to the social, political, and economic issues surrounding the marine environment. I’m very passionate about effectively utilizing research to better manage our marine environment while considering social factors. There is so much more to learn and that is why I am pursuing a Master’s!

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

For me, SMEA is the perfect combination of an interdisciplinary program that is not too focused and not too broad. I am able to pursue the focus of my choice while learning about a wide range of other topics in my SMEA courses and other courses outside SMEA. Many other programs do not encourage straying from a focus, but I think it is important to gain a wide range of skills while becoming an expert in one or two. SMEA offers that balance.

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 doing a thesis on the human dimensions of large-scale marine protected areas. Large-scale marine protected areas are declared areas of the ocean, over 100,000 km2, that are subject to management for conservation purposes. These declared areas are becoming more common, but often lack a management plan that properly addresses social, economic, and political factors. Without a ‘human dimensions’ factor in management, conservation efforts often fail. I hope to create a guidebook that serves to inform managers of ways to include human dimensions in management plans.

What has been your favorite class at UW so far? Why?

This is a tough one! I would say my favorite class was the Field Trip class. It was great to go out in the field and learn from those who work in the marine environmental sectors. We visited the Port of Seattle, Taylor Shellfish, The Nature Conservancy, and others. This class was useful in exploring my own interests and getting an idea of where I see myself after graduation.

What do you like most about SMEA?

SMEAple! (SMEA people) The small program fosters friendships. I love learning from SMEAple because we all have such diverse interests and backgrounds.

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

I love Seattle, especially when it’s sunny. I enjoy hiking the Cascades and spending time by the water at Gasworks or Carkeek park.

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

I would like to work in MPA management. This field inspires and excites me, and I consider that most important when choosing a job.

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

Cephalopods. They are incredibly intelligent and interesting. I once saw 50 squids doing some sort of synchronized dance while snorkeling. They were even changing colors at the same time. I almost cried of joy!