What do you love most about your profession? Why did you choose this career?
In general, marine biology offers you the opportunity to be endlessly curious and question all the wonders that lie within the ocean. This is one of the many reasons why I chose to pursue this as a career. I also love that this profession allows me to share the science that I am learning, as this is a major part of any science degree! Sharing the knowledge you obtain can be done in numerous ways, whether that be public outreach to school groups, and community members, or within a scientific setting at a conference. And finally, I wanted to be an advocate for the environment! By learning more about the functions of the ocean, the delicate habitats, and the way we ultimately rely on a healthy ocean, I can investigate how we can still utilize the ocean for our own needs while still conserving it for future generations.
When did you realize you wanted to work in STEM or Skilled Trades?
I realized I wanted to work within STEM when I started working a summer job as a camp counsellor at a nature camp. Being able to teach kids science and getting them interested in the wonders of nature was incredibly rewarding. I knew right then that I wanted to pursue a career that was in science so that I would be able to continually share with youth what I was learning with the hope that it would inspire youth, and girls in particular, that science is an option!
Why do we need more women in STEM and Skilled Trades?
We need more women in STEM and skilled trades because every woman deserves to have an equal opportunity for any profession and I think it is also empowering to see women strive and thrive in careers that were once predominantly occupied by mainly men. This helps redefine what these jobs look like and who can fill these roles and helps future girls pursue these roles by eliminating any bias.
How do you think the school you went to influenced your career?
In elementary school and high school, my favourite subjects were art class and all the ones related to science, with a big emphasis on biology, as I loved understanding how things worked! In high school, I was incredibly lucky to have outdoor education programs that essentially took what was taught in the classroom outside on field trips. So when I think of my favourite subjects, I think back to how fun it was to learn science through outdoor activities.
What does your typical workday involve? Can you work remotely? (indoors/outdoors, office/plant, travel time, teamwork/solo work)?
On top of being a full-time student, I work a part-time job with Memorial University within a research facility, so my typical workday usually starts there! Once my shift has ended, I head home and start my thesis work! For the most part, all of my school-related work is done from home, but every now and then I like to switch up my environment and go to a café or if the weather is nice, I can pick a nice spot outside to do my work! This is one of the many perks of having a flexible student schedule. Although it may seem like I work solo most of the time, I work alongside fellow students who are within the lab, as well as I work closely with my supervisors as they provide me with a lot of support and guidance.
Who is your role model? What is it about this person that inspires you?
It may sound cliché, but my role model is truly my mom! She works in the science field herself and has never shied away from challenges and adversity. From watching her strength and determination, I have always felt like I was capable of also pursuing science.
What do you do for fun? What are some of your hobbies/activities?
In my free time, I like to socialize, explore the outdoors, and go on hikes with my dog! During the summer I try to take full advantage of nice sunny days and go swimming, biking or camping!
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