Minorities in the Aquatic Sciences

The reason I chose to focus my energy and commitment towards Biology was because I have always been drawn to environmental issues and felt very strongly about, in particular, animal rights. My position as a veterinary assistant has allowed me to work with animals and get the chance to gain hands-on experience that relates to the field of Biology. I eventually became interested in research, which led to my participation in ecological research alongside Dr. Anna Sala, an ecological plant physiologist, at the University of Montana’s EPSCoR Program during the summer of 2005.

I have a passion for traveling and my international educational field experiences in México, Belize, and China have not only enriched my knowledge and understanding of environmental issues, but also have affected me such that I better comprehend much about other cultures and the intricate factors that motivate them to make the decisions they do. Both inspiring professors and my travel experiences have helped me discover my fascination with oceans and marine biodiversity. Some areas that I am specifically interested in are marine toxicology/pharmacology (neuroscience), ecotoxicology of marine organisms, bioluminescence, invertebrate and vertabrate zoology and marine microbiology.

Once I have obtained my bachelor’s degree, I hope to become involved in marine biology internships or positions, where I can familiarize myself with as many aspects of marine research as possible. I seek to gain marine research experience and full exposure to life as a marine researcher. Such experiences will allow me to have a firm understanding of the field and the knowledge to design and propose a practical research project for my graduate and later doctoral studies. I am enthused by the promise of sea exploration in a research vessel and I hope to one day manage my own vessel for marine studies in tropical waters. As a researcher, I would apply my skills and academic preparation to produce unbiased quality research for the benefit of all.