Meriana Poznanski

Tell us about your work/research. What kinds of things do you do?

I'm an intern at the Marshall Islands Marine Resources Authority Coastal division working at the Protected Areas Network office. The Marshall Islands' first National Ocean Sanctuary in Bikar and Bokak is managed under the Protected Areas Network office. I am assisting the PAN team in overseeing all rules and regulations in accordance with the Reimaanlok(RMI National Conservation Area Plan) process. I assist the team in all research conducted by this office.

What sparked your initial in your career?

I have always been interested in marine conservation and management work. I remember my very first SCUBA diving lesson. I was mesmerized by the beauty and diversity down there. It's a world that not everyone can describe and get to see everyday. After taking a few marine science classes at the College of the Marshall Islands, I decided to further my education in marine science at the University of Hawaii at Hilo where I'm currently a senior. The Marshall Islands consists of large proportion of ocean compared to land area, we have to understand it and take care of our main resource. It's my home.

Who influenced you or encouraged you the most?

Growing up my father influenced and taught be to take care of the ocean and everything in it. When I was in the College of the Marshall Islands, there was this one instructor that encouraged and gave me the confidence to go out there to pursue a degree in Marine Science.

What element of your work/study do you think is the most fascinating?

The most fascinating thing I have done is SCUBA diving. It's a very peaceful and beautiful place every time I go underwater. It's somewhat hard to explain to friends and family what I get to observe and experience.

What other jobs led you to your current career?

I've been a student and my current career is my first opportunity.

What are your degrees and certifications?

Certificate of Completion in Marine Science -- College of the Marshall Islands 2018

What are your hobbies?

I love swimming, paddling and fishing.

What advice would you give someone who wants to have a career like yours?

If you want to go into the marine field, never stop learning, respect those who have gone before you and most importantly never stop believing in yourself. The fun part about science is you never stop learning. We are never going to run out of things to study and explore.