One of the many advantages of studying at SMEA is the opportunity to engage with the vast resources available across the University of Washington.

Recently, students in the Marine Science in the Coastal Zone course, taught by Assistant Professor Erendira Aceves Bueno, Ph.D., visited the UW Fish Collection, a globally significant archive of fish biodiversity. During their visit, students had the chance to observe an incredible diversity of species up close, from beautifully preserved coastal fishes to the striking and unforgettable deep-sea anglerfish.

Experiences like this bring classroom learning to life, allowing students to deepen their understanding of marine biodiversity through direct interaction with scientific collections. The visit also highlights the interdisciplinary and hands-on nature of an SMEA education, where students regularly engage with UW’s world-class collections, research labs, and expert faculty.

These opportunities are a key part of what makes SMEA a dynamic and immersive place to study marine and environmental affairs.