Finding My Way to SEAS
My name is Talia, I am a zoology student studying at Cardiff University in Wales, UK, and I have been an intern at Scuba Junkie SEAS for the last 10 months.
I first heard about SEAS through another Cardiff student who had once come as a diving guest. This student was so passionate when talking about Malaysia and really encouraged me to research conservation groups here for my internship year. Making initial contact with SEAS and learning about their current and future projects, it was safe to say I was incredibly excited and keen to join.
As a zoology student, my marine biology knowledge was quite limited, but I had a newly discovered passion for diving which made me fall in love with the marine world. I was desperate for an opportunity to explore this new interest.
My role at SEAS became closely intertwined with our turtle hatchery, particularly the green turtle sex ratio study, which I later came to manage in terms of data collection, entry and analysis. This study involved recording incubation temperatures at specific time periods using temperature loggers to estimate the sex ratio of turtle hatchlings in nests relocated to our hatchery.
Challenges and Personal Growth
My biggest challenge was definitely moving across the world, away from friends and family, and integrating into not only a new work culture but also an unfamiliar country and religious culture. However, over time I met people who positively shaped my experience here and who I hope to remain friends with for life.
Another personal challenge was public speaking, which I absolutely hated. Through Friday night presentations and delivering hatchling release speeches in front of guests, I gradually became much more comfortable speaking to groups.
Scrubbing tanks, baby turtle releases, diving for coral restoration, running plastic project activities with local children, supporting volunteer programmes, helping with village classes, and even being slapped by our supposedly gentle turtles are just some of the things SEAS threw me into. I couldn’t be more tired—or more grateful.
Learning New Skills
Through helping with village classes alongside my coworker, I became inspired to learn the basics of Bahasa Melayu. This allowed me to connect more closely with local children and staff members.
Learning the language has been one of my favourite achievements, especially because I normally struggle with language learning. Other highlights include gaining my Rescue Diver qualification and significantly improving my diving skills during my time here.
Understanding Conservation Beyond Science
One aspect of my internship that I did not expect before arriving was how interconnected conservation work really is. While much of my role focused on scientific data collection and analysis, I quickly learned that successful conservation depends just as much on education, community engagement and collaboration.
Whether speaking to guests about turtle conservation, working with local children during outreach activities, or supporting volunteers from around the world, I saw firsthand how small actions can contribute to meaningful conservation outcomes.
These experiences have strengthened my confidence, broadened my perspective and reinforced my desire to pursue a career dedicated to protecting wildlife and ecosystems.
Looking Ahead
This internship has truly been an eye-opening experience and one that I believe I will carry with me throughout my future conservation career. The lessons, skills and relationships I have gained during my time with SEAS have shaped both my professional ambitions and personal growth, and I will always be grateful for the opportunity.
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