Greater Reading Area
Since a young age I have been fascinated by wildlife and the great outdoors, with Sir David Attenborough and Steve Irwin heavily influencing my choice of television and reading. I originally started my career by following my academic strengths with a Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science and Mathematics from the University of Bath, including a placement year in a tech company, where I gained experience in software development and large database management. Since completing my undergraduate degree I have become more involved with the underwater world, having completed my PADI Divemaster and using the skills learnt from this qualification to assist in teaching school children and disabled individuals the joys of diving through adaptive teaching. Combining my passion for wildlife and my Divemaster qualification I have completed two internships with global marine conservation companies where I gained precious skills in data collection for underwater surveys and monitoring, as well as skills that allow me to assist in conserving the marine world, like using coral trees for coral restoration projects. During the global pandemic I have completed a Master of Science in Aquatic Conservation, Ecology and Restoration at University College London, through which I have had the opportunity to learn from some of the leading experts in aquatic conservation and gain valuable skills that I can use confidently in the world of conservation. Through first-hand experience and informative lectures, I have seen the devastating impacts that invasive species can have on nature and chose to investigate this further in my Master’s dissertation by studying the relationships between native Eurasian otters and invasive signal crayfish. I am now looking to further my experience in the professional world of conservation.
Part of rescue team for major water based events, such as Tough Mudder and The World Triathlon Series. Role also involves assisting in store front sales and providing assistance in teaching scuba diving.
The main role of this placement was in education, showing adults and children alike the importance of working with the wildlife to ensure that it is conserved for the future. I also assisted with research students, helping them conduct underwater transects to monitor the change in populations after fishing restrictions had been implemented.
My main responsibilities involved the wellbeing of the Marine Park Reserve that surrounds the island of St Eustatius. I spent most of my time on the water, maintaining mooring lines and dive sites, as well as monitoring coral regrowth in our coral nursery, measuring and cleaning the fragments so they were ready for replantation. I also gained experience in monitoring and controlling invasive species such as lionfish.