Lifelong Marine Biology Dreams Realized

Madeline Marens ’12 knew at the age of 5 that she wanted to be a marine biologist – a dream she never outgrew. She majored in marine biology and achieved her goal, landing a job as an aquarist at the N.C. Aquarium at Fort Fisher.

“I really enjoy the aquarium setting and feel like I can be engaged in shark conservation initiatives there,” she said. “The aquarium serves as an instrumental public agency to inspire and commit to the conservation of the environment. I enjoy the hands-on aspect of it.”

Marens credits several UNCW professors – Fred Scharf, Tom Lankford, Ann Pabst and Marcel Van Tuinen – for her passion for conservation.

“The education I received as an undergrad and now as a graduate student has helped me achieve the career I dreamed of as a child,” she said.

Find out more about Madeline at We Are UNCW.

Coming back to UNCW

Ever thought about earning another degree from UNCW? Across the country there is an increase in grad student applications and UNCW is no exception. Many people say it's due to the economy and the hardships with finding a decent job right out of school. We believe that the fantastic programs offered to graduate students are having an impact on its appeal also. Take a look for yourself. 

UNCW offers a wide variety of graduate degrees to fit many interests including the nationally renowned M.F.A. in creative writing, the Ed.D. in educational leadership and administration and the Pd.D. in marine biology. Encompassing more than 30 Master's Degree Programs, 2 Doctoral Programs, and numerous Graduate Certificate Programs it's easy to see why many choose UNCW as their destination for a continuing their educational experience.

Would love to, but can't find the funds to cover a new degree? The Alumni Association offers two graduate student scholarships and there are other financial aid options from UNCW. The possibility may be closer than you think!

Wherever your journey is headed, we're glad that UNCW could be a part of it.