Emily Saunders

Unlike most of our reps I was not raised by the coast. I was brought up in a little town 40 minutes north of London, which as most of you sea-lovers can imagine can be quite claustrophobic at times. Moving to Plymouth is one of the best decisions I’ve made as its brought along with it so many exciting opportunities to help exercise my passion for the ocean. Swimming up and down a 25 metre pool everyday just doesn’t quite compare to the real thing you see.

I’m in my 3rd year at the University of Plymouth studying Ocean Science and Marine Conservation which has highlighted the variety of ways this artificial invader is entering our marine environment. My interest in the scene has progressed throughout my studies into my final dissertation topic where I’m analysing how the issue of microplastic pollution is progressing around the world.

When trying to decide on what I wanted to do at university, marine sciences had never crossed my mind, in fact I didn’t even think it was an option until my parents suggested it. I love my course and the career path I chose, but unless I’d had the support from my parents and the inspiration from legends like David Attenborough, I don’t think I would be aware of the threats I am today, facing our oceans.

I’ve had the pleasure of being able to venture to the other side of the world to see how researchers are working with the environment to measure changes in ecosystem dynamics as climate change takes its toll, it was a once in a lifetime opportunity and my goal is to be able to share my knowledge and experiences with our country’s own government one day on how we can start to really alter how we interact with our environment.

I want to be a part of the new generation of marine scientists aiding in discovery, and making the changes necessary to start making a positive difference in our natural world.