We’re making a week of International Day of Women and Girls in Science, and getting the word out about the amazing work our partners are doing to protect our blue planet.

Next up in our interview series is our superstar Wavemaker Sara Casareto: marine biologist, NAUI Rescue and AAUS diver, and passionate science communicator.

1. What inspired you to pursue a career in science, and specifically in your specialty?

Growing up, I was always obsessed with the ocean. It first started out with wanting to be a mermaid, however, once I learned that I wouldn't be able to grow a tail and gills, I looked for the next best thing. I became scuba certified at the age of 11 and from then my fascination with the ocean and animals in it only grew. I realized that although I couldn't be a mermaid, I could be a marine biologist. As I learned more about my field, I found myself drawn to predators and how they structure their ecosystem and the foodweb.

2. Can you share a memorable experience from your research or an expedition that shaped your perspective on ocean conservation?

I have been so fortunate to spend so much time in the field and working with incredible animals like sharks. One thing I have learned from sharks is how to be resilient, the concept of "just keep swimming". There was one day when tagging sharks, we pulled up a gorgeous nurse shark, but she was missing her entire second dorsal fin. Although we couldn't determine the cause of this injury, a couple of things stood out to me. 1. That it was fully healed, and 2. This nurse shark wasn't behaving any less energetically than any other nurse shark I had worked with. At this moment it really resonated with me the resilience of nature, how wildlife and our ocean, yes are facing severe human impacts, but nature still continues. We need to emulate that same resilience in the work we do with ocean conservation.

3. What advice do you have for young girls and women interested in pursuing careers in science, especially those who love the ocean?

My advice for those interested in science, is two-fold. The first part can be boiled down into three words, "Take Up Space". Don't be afraid to ask questions, to take classes and volunteer, and learn skills. You deserve to take up space. My second piece of advice stems from this, because when you take up space, you are going to hear the word "No", so I tell these girls to not let the fear of rejection stop them from taking action.

4. What is your vision for the future of marine science, and how can we all contribute to preserving our oceans?

My future vision for marine science is one in which we work closely with local communities to solve local problems in a way that balances the need to protect our ocean with the balance of supporting livelihoods. From there, working with different groups on a global scale to better ensure that similar actions are being taken across the ocean. I want to ensure that our next generations have a thriving ocean to study and protect. This starts with each of us. All of us every day can make choices that help our ocean, from what we eat, to what we buy, to the way we live.

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