1. What’s your role in the lab?
My name is Melissa Soto and my time at RJD has just begun. I am excited to see what the future has in store. At the moment, I assist with Twitter and write for the blog. I normally do about two tweets per day around 10:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. I try and switch it up between upcoming trips, photos/videos of previous trips or recently written articles relating to marine conservation locally or throughout the world.

2. Tell us a little about yourself.
I am from Miami, Florida and spend most of my time outdoors. Growing up as a competitive swimmer, a pool or the ocean is where you’ll find me. I enjoy reading and passing the time with my family and friends. I do have a strong passion for traveling and I’m always thinking of where I’m headed to next.

3. How did you get interested in marine biology and conservation?
I became interested in marine conservation by growing up in Miami, studying abroad in Australia, and being a swimmer. Since I am a writer and not a scientist, I believe it is compulsory for the general public to understand what is happening to our marine world and what they can do to help. Sometimes it’s difficult to get that across to people who are not part of the science world and that’s where I come in. I try to simplify things and hope that by me doing that people will take part in conserving the ocean in anyway they please.

4. What’s your favorite part about working in the lab?
My favorite part about being a member of RJD is how kind everyone is. Although I have just started, everyone has been very helpful and friendly. I also like how organized and efficient everything is. From trip scheduling to receiving details about who is in charge of what, the lab is very orderly.

5. Is there anything else you’d like to tell our blog readers?
I want the readers to know they shouldn’t be scared of the ocean; there is plenty to learn! If they stay knowledgeable through valid sources instead of hearsay, there should be no reason for fear. The ocean has so many regions filled with life that have yet to be discovered. We need readers who are passionate to become educated and take action.