Empowering Future Marine Biologists: Girl Scouts Dive into Discovery in the Florida Keys

The dream of becoming a marine biologist is something you often hear from children and young adults after they’ve experienced the wonders of the beach, snorkeling, or visiting an aquarium. This is significant because when a desire is sparked in a young person to pursue marine biology, it can lead them to change the world. Many marine biologists have contributed to critical conservation efforts, such as saving whales, reducing dolphin bycatch during tuna fishing, and tackling other pressing environmental challenges. At Appleseed Expeditions, where I teach marine biology, I’ve observed that the majority of these aspiring marine biologists are boys. This is likely due to societal factors where girls have not been equally encouraged to pursue science. We want to change this by offering Girl Scout trips to the Florida Keys, providing young women with a unique opportunity to learn about fragile marine ecosystems, including species like sea turtles, dolphins, and sharks. On our Girl Scout trip to the Florida Keys, participants not only learn through snorkeling and exploring marine habitats but also engage in impactful volunteer work. For example, they work with veterinarians at the Keys Wild Bird Sanctuary, helping care for injured birds affected by human activities. Through these experiences, we hope to ignite a passion for marine conservation in young women, empowering them to protect the oceans and the incredible wildlife within them. If you're looking to inspire young girls to dream big and make a difference in marine conservation, join Appleseed Expeditions on a Girl Scout trip to the Florida Keys. It’s an unforgettable, educational journey that could be the first step toward becoming the next marine biologist who changes the world.