Why did I choose Marine Biology:
I love everything about the ocean, specifically it's biodiversity and marine turtles!
About my college education:
I learned a lot from the simplest biological theories up to the mind-breaking molecular language of science, just like a typical Biology major. But what makes the experience different, was we applied the learning to understand marine organisms–from the microscopic plankton to the gargantuan blue whales. But even though we're a Biology major, we actually have 4 chemistry, 2 physics, and 4 mathematics subjects. And these make the program difficult (because I'm not into numbers).
What's also unique about this degree is you have to spend more time in the seas doing fieldwork! You get to work with a small group and study a particular ecosystem (seagrass, mangroves, corals). You get to see turtles, dolphins, snakes, and other unusual animals that you can't find elsewhere. But we are not only limited in doing fieldworks, we are also trained in the laboratory conducting experiments on biodiscovery, biotechnology, etc.
The most useful thing I've learned was the realization that our oceans are worth protecting because of it's rich unparalleled diversity. It helped developed my passion and commitment to our seas, and this was my inspiration to finish the program with flying colors.
My current job:
Professionally, I work as a project-based Research Assistant in a Marine Foraging study of Arizona State University, USA in Sarangani Province, Philippines. I identify the marine resources that gleaners collected along the tidal flats and compute the caloric return rate of every gleaner. Since my work is flexitime, I can also give enough time to my advocacy work, which is marine conservation, mainly marine turtles.
Am I using what I learned in college:
First, I learned to travel. Yes, a Marine Conservationist—who travels a lot for campaigns—needs to learn the ability of the marine turtles to navigate correctly.
Secondly, I learned to socialize. A field researcher, especially if the project is somehow anthropological in nature, needs to have an amicable aura and exemplary public relations.
Thirdly, I learned to be inquisitive. As a product of science, one should really have to learn to ask questions. :)
How long did it take to find a job:
Few weeks only.
Do I recommend studying Marine Biology:
I highly recommend this course because there are less competition and more work opportunities. A Marine Biology graduate can be a:
- marine biologist, biologist, conservationist, etc.
- college instructor, Senior high teacher (with Education units), etc.
- researcher in a project, institute, etc.
- laboratory analyst, quality control inspector, etc.
- manager, coordinator in marine or environment related projects
- aquarist, diver, etc.
- science research specialist, scientific aid,
- environment consultation, etc.
You can work in a wide spectrum of environments such as: DENR, BFAR, DOST, Academic Institutes, Funded Projects, Environmental NGOs, Ocean Parks, Ocean Canning, Aquaculture Corp., Academe, Dive Shops, Natural Marine Parks, etc.
The salary depends on the type of job, level of position, institution and educational attainment (Bachelor, Master, or PhD)
Advice to people who are thinking of studying this course:
If you want to enrol in this degree, you have to be passionate and committed—as these fuels your determination and hardwork. Marine Biology is difficult, if you don't feel connected with the seas. Some of those who took the course because of "good name" or "out of choice" ended up underemployed. There are actually few Universities in the Philippines that offers Marine Biology; and I believe, their products should be working in line with what they have learned in the program.
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