Renae completed her master’s degree in marine biology, with a focus on marine mammals, from Nova Southeastern University, Florida, in December 2013. Her capstone project focused on cooperative foraging in marine mammals. She has conducted several independent and group research projects including the applicability of the intermediate disturbance hypothesis in tide pools and how to set up a land-based killer whale research station. Renae had the honor of presenting a poster on this subject with her colleagues at the American Cetacean Society Conference in Monterey, California in 2008. She used the training grant to complete her open water certification and to purchase a BCD. A first time diver, her open water training was spent in a pool, a lake, and the ocean off Dania, Florida. “One thing I improved on greatly while in the lake was buoyancy. There was also a curious fish that kept nibbling on my ear while we were on the bottom practicing skills. It was a little annoying, but something I won’t forget. It made the experience all the more memorable. In the ocean we practiced using a compass, which was new and a great skill to learn. Once we had finished all the skills we were able to explore the area a little bit. It was nice to be able to enjoy the time underwater without worrying about skills. I went into this experience a little bit nervous because I didn’t know what to expect, but I enjoyed learning and can’t wait to get back out there! This will be a great skill as I continue my education to become a marine biologist.”