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

I came to SMEA with years of research in hard sciences, particularly in aquatic ecology, fisheries, and biological oceanography. Over the years, I realized that to truly understand the feasibility of scientific decisions, an understanding of how policy realm is structured is critical. As a student in SMEA, I hope to effectively merge my existing scientific knowledge & new understanding of policy process to make reasonable decisions (whether in policy or scientific realm) in future career opportunities.

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

The environment at SMEA is truly the perfect fit for anyone who would be interested in merging scientific research and human dimensions. Blending those two together is what I anticipated when I applied to SMEA, and so far, my academic & research experiences at SMEA have exceeded my expectations.

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 currently writing a thesis on how shoreline armoring throughout the Puget Sound affects intertidal invertebrate biodiversity. I am collaborating with the research staff at the School of Aquatic & Fishery Sciences to understand if restoring shorelines (by removing armoring structures, i.e. bulkheads & ripraps) can restore ecological health & function to these habitats.

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

This is a hard one, since there are many great classes at UW. One of my favorite classes has been the “Introduction to the Human Dimensions of Global Change”. Understanding the human component of marine ecosystems, in particular how humans can shape decisions in marine science & policy realm, was really interesting and offered a new perspective on approaching various scientific decisions.

What do you like most about SMEA?

The faculty, staff, and students at SMEA are really supportive of students’ goals, whether that involves changing thesis ideas, coursework adjustment, or any decisions that we make to best align them with our academic & professional goals. Furthermore, outside SMEA, we can access other graduate student opportunities at UW, including research, coursework, and networking with other faculty & research affiliates.

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

Seattle is fantastic. The city has a lot to offer including historical landmarks, beautiful parks, and countless places to eat out. Furthermore, Seattle is within a short drive from amazing Washington wilderness that provide breathtaking views, from coasts to mountains. As a result, I take advantage of the accessibility to nearby national forests, national parks, and beaches by hiking and backpacking whenever I can.

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

I hope to pursue a doctoral degree after SMEA, and ultimately, I would love to become a tenure-track faculty, or a research scientist at a federal or a non-profit organization. I love research and I would like to continue tackling new research questions to make better scientific decisions in both science & policy circles.

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

Definitely flying fish. I am awed at their ability to jump and glide across the water for a considerable distance. I also observed thousands of them jumping & gliding during the night in the Gulf of Mexico (they were also flying to avoid ravenous dolphins) – it was quite a sight.