RAMP 2012 Expediton Scientist Profile –
Maya Walton, Graduate Student at University of Hawaiʻi Mānoa

Maya Walton. Credit: C. Wiener and M. Onuma

Role on the expedition:
Research Scientist

How I became interested in marine science:
I grew up in San Francisco, near the ocean. I was lucky enough to get an internship at the California Academy of Sciences, and helped on a project that looked at benthic organisms in the Bay area.

Favorite food or meal on the ship:
That's a hard one. I think it would be the cookies: they were really delicious.

Why I love science:
Why doesn't everyone love science? I love science because I think it gives a voice to things that normally do not have a voice. Like corals for instance, they cannot speak for themselves, but as scientists we can give them a voice to be heard. I also like the discovery aspect and the fact that the work that we do has never been done before.

Advice for future marine scientists:
It's important to learn what your strengths and weaknesses are, and play into your strengths. Keep pursuing your passion by finding internships or places where you can volunteer. Read books, talk to people who work in marine science, and find out how they got there. Be persistent in the pursuit of your passion!

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