By Josie Clarck
I came to Koh Tao wanting to spend more time underwater and gain some hands-on experience in marine conservation, and the eco course at Big Blue gave me the opportunity to do exactly that! Having already studied tropical marine biology, I was really keen to take what I’d learned academically and experience more of the practical side of reef monitoring and conservation.
Throughout the course I got involved in coral health assessments, fish and invertebrate surveys, artificial reef maintenance and underwater data collection. I also spent a LOT of time diving, which gave me the chance to become much more familiar with the marine life here and massively improve my confidence underwater.
For me, one of the most valuable parts was being able to combine my background in marine biology with practical experience in the water. Carrying out surveys and collecting data underwater has helped confirm how much I want fieldwork, diving and tropical marine research to be part of my future.
For anyone thinking about doing the course, I’d especially recommend it if you want to experience the practical side of marine conservation while getting plenty of time underwater. You don’t need to come from a marine biology background either, if you’re interested in the ocean and want to learn more about what you’re seeing while you dive… there’s so much to take away from it!
I’ve left the course a much more confident diver, with more field experience and an even bigger motivation to keep working within the marine world!
Thank you so much to Izzy the kind, caring and enthusiastic lead of this course for such a wonderful experience!