Expert: Dana Krempels, Ph.D. - 12/4/2008

Question
My name is Jordan and I'm a senior in high school. I am in love with animals, especially marine life such as dolphins. I can't think of anything else I want to do pretaining to my career in life. I know marine biology has a lot of different job opportunities, I just don't know what it is that I should do, or is open for me? I am very confused. I plan on going to college and majoring in biology, and after a year or two of core classes begin a marine science program, but I still don't know what job this will lead me to doing. Thanks so much for your time.
Jordan

Answer
Dear Jordan,

The field of Marine Science and Marine Biology is diverse and full of fascinating opportunities for careers.  To know which direction you wish to turn, first decide if you would like to be a scientist, which would involve doing research as a career, or would you rather be someone who concentrates on marine conservation, or even working with marine organisms at a public entertainment facility such as Sea World.  Knowing which of these options sounds most appealing will help guide you to the next step.

You're on the right track with a biology degree, which will prepare you for a wide variety of fields.  I'd suggest you contact the faculty at several colleges and/or universities that have strong marine science programs.  The University of Miami's Rosenstiel School of Marine Science (RSMAS) is an excellent place to start, and you can contact the faculty in charge of their undergraduate marine science program via their web site:

http://www.rsmas.miami.edu/

The director of the undergraduate program is Dr. Dan Diresta, and if you write to me privately at dana@miami.edu I will be happy to give you his email address so that you can ask him more about the program.

Hope this helps get you started!

Dana