Taking this course on conserving marine biodiversity was an eye-opening and interdisciplinary experience that deepened my understanding of the challenges facing our oceans. The focus of the course was to examine marine conservation through a comprehensive review of both historical and modern literature. This included topics like marine ecology’s role in conservation biology, the threats to marine biodiversity, extinction risk assessment, and strategies for preserving marine habitats and species.

Throughout the course, I practiced critical skills such as analyzing complex scientific literature, synthesizing ideas, and evaluating conservation methods. Engaging with such diverse materials sharpened my ability to think critically and contextualize solutions within both ecological and social frameworks. One of the key projects involved assessing the conservation challenges of a specific marine habitat or region, where I had to propose evidence-based recommendations. The expectations were high, requiring thorough research and clear communication of my findings.

Some of my most interesting discoveries during this course involved the interconnectedness of marine ecosystems and the cascading effects of biodiversity loss. Personally, I learned how much I value creative problem-solving, especially when addressing large-scale environmental issues. Collaborating with peers also gave me insight into different perspectives and approaches to conservation. One of the most challenging moments was grappling with the magnitude of threats to marine biodiversity—it was overwhelming at times. However, the most powerful learning moments came from understanding how even small, localized efforts can lead to meaningful change.

The material I produced included a detailed research report and a presentation summarizing my findings and recommendations. The most important thing I learned was the urgency of marine conservation and the importance of using scientific knowledge to drive action. If I could take the course again, I might focus more on exploring interdisciplinary collaborations to expand my approach even further.