Introducing Katherine Dziedzic

I was eleven years old when I learned about Jacques Cousteau's adventures and the wonders of the ocean. His scientific endeavors and discussions of the ocean captivated me and made me incredibly curious about what the ocean had to offer. 

During the summer of 2001, I went on a family vacation to St. Thomas, USVI where I was introduced to the ocean. While playing in the sand one day, a girl about my age brought over a white sea urchin and a sea star. My eyes grew wide as I was completely enthralled with the amazing sea life this stranger was showing me. Before I could open my mouth to ask questions, she grabbed my hand and told me to follow her. She handed me a pair of flippers, found me some goggles and told me we were going snorkeling. I remember thinking, "Snorkeling? What the heck is snorkeling? Where is this girl taking me?". I was so confused and a little apprehensive, but then - I saw it!! I saw a coral reef! I saw so many colors, so many beautiful fish, large and small, and so many corals! Needless to say, my head was underwater that entire vacation.

 

After that vacation, I went back to the land-locked city of Chicago wanting to explore more. My parents quickly became members of the Shedd Aquarium and found some opportunities for me to take part in. Throughout high school, I remained active in a variety of Shedd Aquarium programs where I was able to work alongside Aquarium experts and learn about various ecosystems. During my sophomore year of high school, I travelled to Bimini, Bahamas with the Shedd Aquarium's High School Marine Biology (HSMB) trip. Each student took part in a scientific project where we asked scientific questions, conducted experiments, and wrote up scientific reports. I worked on a plankton ecology experiment where I collected plankton samples from various depths of the water column. I still have my report write up and presentation! This experience was a profound introduction to a career in marine biology and after taking part, there was no looking back! 

 

I attended the University of Miami (in Florida, not Ohio) where I double majored in marine science and biology. I love my alma mater and will forever appreciate the experiences I was able to take part in. For three years I volunteered in a coral reef conservation lab where I took part in experiments and lab work, very similar to what I am doing in my graduate work. I studied abroad in the Galapagos Islands and learned about the Islands' biology, geology and its culture. It was an amazing three months, and I am constantly looking for ways to get back and visit the islands again! 

 

As a fourth year PhD Student, I am still on my quest to become a marine biologist. I've always been in love with the ocean, and am proud to be part of the large collection of scientists trying to save it. I find the knowledge my research will produce extremely valuable and hope you will consider funding it!