Some opportunities are like rare coral spawning events – they only come once, and you have to be ready to seize them
Jaelen from USA is undertaking a PhD in Marine Science with @James Cook University (JCU) in Townsville and is one of the 2024 Study Townsville Student ambassadors. Jaelen shares how by taking an opportunity to take a leap into the unknown and move to Townsville, Australia to study has had an immensely positive impact on her life.
Hello, I’m Jaelen. While I may seem like just another American student who migrated to Townsville for JCU’s marine biology program, my journey had a unique beginning. I discovered JCU quite by chance through an online research platform. At the time, I was wrapping up my Masters degree in fish physiology and aquaculture, but I didn’t see myself staying in that field for the long haul. That was when an advertisement for JCU’s post-graduate research scholarship appeared, it opened a door I hadn’t known existed. The prospect of moving to Australia for my degree seemed like a leap into the unknown, but as I researched Townsville, I could picture myself building a life there. Some opportunities are like rare coral spawning events – they only come once, and you have to be ready to seize them.
My PhD research focuses on something rather specific: understanding how stingrays use intertidal zones as nurseries. Though much of my PhD life revolves around office work – planning projects, writing papers, and crafting grant applications -the fieldwork has been nothing short of extraordinary. My research involves using aerial drones to observe and identify rays, studying their behavioural patterns in their natural habitat. I’ve even mastered the peculiar art of catching rays and inducing regurgitation to analyse their diet – a technique that raises eyebrows at social gatherings but provides invaluable ecological data. Cool, right?
Aside from my research, I also have some awesome side jobs. I work with the marketing and outreach team at JCU as a student ambassador. I am also a drone pilot at Magnetic Island as part of the Sharksmart drone trials program. Working another job during uni can get crazy, so make sure if you get a job, it is within your limits!
After three years living in Townsville, I still have no regrets settling here. The city is a living laboratory where nature writes new stories every day. Wildlife isn’t confined to preserves here – it’s your neighbour, your morning walking companion, and your weekend adventure! And no, despite popular belief, not everything in Australia is plotting your demise! The community here is alive, diverse, and very welcoming. I made friends on the first day I landed here, and I believe these friends will last a lifetime.
To truly thrive here, I’ve found that involvement is key. I’ve woven myself into the community by joining several organisations. At JCU, I have been involved with the FINstitute shark conservation consortium (super fun, highly recommend). As for professional organisations, the Australian Marine Sciences Association is a must for students pursuing marine biology degrees. Outside of uni, I am also an active member of North Queensland Wildlife Care. Whatever your interests, Townsville has a niche for all of us!
November 2024
Photo Credit: Jaelen Myers
