Fisheries and Marine Institute of Memorial University of Newfoundland

Less than 5% of the world's oceans have been mapped. For third year Ocean Mapping student, Sarah Walsh, ensuring our oceans are better understood and protected ultimately led her to the Fisheries and Marine Institute of Memorial University (MI).

Before coming to MI, Ms. Walsh completed a Bachelor of Science focused in Marine Biology at Memorial University where she developed an interest in ocean technology. This interest, paired with her desire to continue learning about the ocean guided her to the exciting world of ocean mapping.

“I chose ocean mapping because I knew it would immerse me in a world of ocean-based technology, while also giving me the opportunity to use my marine biology background,” said Ms. Walsh. “I was also intrigued by the fact that working with sonar technology would allow me to travel the world and always experience something new for the rest of my life.”

Of the many things that Ms. Walsh enjoys about MI, the learning environment is at the top. “The Institute provides a hands on approach to learning, which is exactly what a student needs to really understand their field of work. The classes are also much smaller than what I was used to, so it gives you the opportunity to get the most out of your teacher. You can tell that they care about you as a student and that they want you to succeed.”

Ms. Walsh has one more year to go before graduation. As for what’s next, she says her main goal when registering for the Ocean Mapping program was to use this type of technology to help better our collective knowledge of the oceans. While she doesn’t have a definite plan, she does know that she wants to work with companies that have the best interest of the oceans in mind.

“Our oceans need our help, so it’s up to future students to get involved in any way they can,” said Ms. Walsh. “The Ocean Mapping program at MI could be their first step.”

The four-year Ocean Mapping Program consists of eight in-class semesters, three technical sessions and a work term. Students build solid technical skills to collect, manage, analyze and disseminate ocean data through the use of marine surveying equipment, optical and acoustic remote sensing technologies, oceanographic instrumentation and geographic information systems. For more information, visit the program website.