Marine Biology

Catherine – future marine biologist

I love animals, especially creatures that live in the sea. My family and I visit beaches several times a year. Sometimes my grandma will bring her seining net. We have made some really great memories together. Last summer, I went to Clearwater, Florida for a family reunion. My uncle works at the Clearwater Marine Aquarium (CMA). One of the highlights was going on a boat ride led by a Marine Biologist. I got to help with the water samples. We all got to meet the cast of the Dolphin Tale movies, the animal cast, that is! The next day, we went to a bayside park for the reunion, and heard that there were dolphins caught in some mangroves nearby. So out of curiosity, we had to check it out! There were two park rangers already holding their blowholes above the water. They would have drowned without being able to go up to the surface for air. My dad got into the water to help. The crew from CMA arrived at the scene and loaded the dolphins into the trucks after taking some tests. These experiences helped me to realize that this is a big career possibility.

I would like to be a Marine Biologist because our ocean needs help. Animals are vulnerable to extinction because of pollution and many other threats. I would love to help this cause, because every person can make a difference. Both masters and PhD programs are available. Opportunities range from behavioral research to environmental regulation enforcement.

As you can see, I have a passion for animals. I have learned from experience that I truly enjoy helping our coasts and oceans grow healthier and more habitable for all of its creatures.