- MEM Environment Concentration: Coastal and Marine Systems (CAMS)
- MEM Management Concentration: Environmental Analytics and Modeling (EAM)
- Expected Graduation Date: May 2025
What is your previous work experience?
During my time as an undergraduate student I conducted field work in kelp forests, studied behavioral ecology of mantis shrimp and octopuses, and aided in a project using Autonomous Surface Vehicles to monitor Marine Protected Areas in the Philippines. Once graduated, I researched juvenile coho salmon and steelhead trout in Northern California river systems before moving to Hawai'i to monitor hawksbill sea turtles during nesting and hatching season. I then moved to the Florida Keys where I have been working as a marine science educator for almost two years.
Why did you choose the Nicholas School?
The responsiveness and openness of the students and professors at the Nicholas School really stood out to me during my deliberation process. I was able to talk to a variety of people here about their experiences and future opportunities I may be able to take part in while at Duke, and everyone had incredible things to say about this program and the people involved. The ability to move to the Duke University Marine Lab for my second year to focus on experiential marine science learning and research was also a huge draw for me!
What are you looking forward to as an incoming Nicholas School student?
After a few years of working and figuring out my career goals, I am beyond excited to dive back into school and conduct my own research. I love new experiences, and my two years at Duke will be full of them! From meeting new friends, colleagues, and mentors, to expanding my technical GIS and modeling skills, to attending conferences, I am looking forward to it all.
Do you have any areas of interest or special focus you will undertake during your time at the Nicholas School?
I will be focusing on applied marine research that combines my love of field work with the power of remote sensing technology. I also hope to expand my knowledge of Marine Protected Areas, highly migratory species, and international cooperation, so my Master's Project will be incorporating as many of these aspects as I can feasibly manage.
What are your current career aspirations?
I strive to use science to expand knowledge of marine ecosystems in order to impact environmental regulations and policy decisions. My ultimate goal is connecting science with conservation management through outreach, education, and research. Hopefully, my future career will have a balance between working outside, using drones or other remote sensing tools, and connecting with others through environmental education.