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Student Perspective | Livia Lang | Marine Science

MSc Marine Science & Climate Change
26th February 2021
I was born in Hungary. At the age of 13 I moved to Austria to follow my career as a professional synchronized swimmer. Having an Austrian father, I didn’t have difficulties with the language. My passion for biology originated during high school. I studied Biology with a focus on zoology at the University of Vienna. In my last years I completed several voluntary works abroad (in Italy, Thailand and Scotland). That’s how I gained a better view on the world of marine scientists. On a sailing boat-based survey in the Hebrides my passion strengthened for the sea and all its living organisms… So there, I decided to do a master’s in marine science.

What attracted you to studying the MSc in Marine Science and Climate Change programme?

I have always had a connection with water. As a professional synchronised swimmer, I was often in the water in the morning and in the evening. Of course, swimming in a pool is different from the sea, but just the feeling of being in the water is special to me. Whenever I have free time here after lectures, I try to go for a swim in the sea.
For me, it is a different universe down there at the seabed. First, you only see rocks and algae but when you take a closer look, it is a diverse universe with creatures.

What attracted you to studying in Gibraltar specifically?

In Gibraltar, we have the unique opportunity to understand the relationship between the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean, this makes it an interesting location to study. Besides that, I always wanted to live close to the sea. I considered other options to study as well, but the decisive factor was that I can go into the sea the whole year-round. Even though some locals might tell you it can get cold in winter.
The smaller size of this University was another reason for me to come here. Coming from a big university with over 800 other students in a year, the familiarity of a smaller University appealed to me. When I first arrived, I was still nervous, hoping to connect with enough people, since the class size was small. Luckily, it is even better than I imagined: We are closely connected in class, everybody brings in their own knowledge and is willing to help others. I think that after all, it may be even easier to connect with people here compared to a bigger University. For example, with living here in the accommodation I can just walk upstairs and knock on someone’s door for a movie night or playing some cards. Having this opportunity, and the University can offer face to face classes during this pandemic is a true social value to me.

What are your plans for after you finish your degree?

Once I graduate from my masters, I see myself working on a boat: Doing data collection or simply exploring our oceans more. I also want to get my scientific diving license. Furthermore, I would like to work with NGO’s, not only doing desk work but rather getting into the field. And of course, I still want to live near the sea!​
  • Postgraduate
    MSc

    Master in Marine Science & Climate Change

    Designed and delivered by expert academics and scientists, this full or part-time interdisciplinary programme blends theoretical study with practical, field-based work. You will cover specialist subject areas and gain the skills required to tackle the complex issues associated with the sustainable development of marine ecosystems.[...]

    1 Year

    No Placement option

    Full Time

    View Course