My name is John Ashman, and I am currently a biological oceanography major at Old Dominion University. After being born in and living in north eastern Pennsylvania for the first 25 years of my life I enlisted in the Navy. During my 2 enlistments I operated and maintained underwater drones that used sonar to find things on the ocean floor. This is where my interest in studying the ocean and life began. I was able to complete an associates degree in general studies before I was honorably discharged and enrolled at ODU.

During my time off I enjoy playing with my son, watching sports, playing video games, listening to music, and driving my sports car. Once I graduate I hope to combine my formal education with my former military occupation, to be able to study ocean life.