Why I Care About Protecting Our Oceans, and How I Plan to Use My Degree to Do So From my earliest experiences exploring the ocean’s depths as a SCUBA diver to leading marine biology programs around the world, my connection to the sea has been a defining part of my life. The ocean is not just a vast body of water, it’s a living, breathing system that sustains countless species, regulates our climate, and provides food and livelihoods for billions of people. Protecting it is both a moral responsibility and a practical necessity. I care deeply about ocean conservation because I have witnessed firsthand the devastating effects of pollution, climate change, and habitat destruction on marine ecosystems. Coral reefs bleached and dying, fisheries struggling to sustain communities, and plastic waste infiltrating even the most remote corners of the ocean, these realities fuel my determination to be part of the solution. My professional journey as a marine biologist and environmental educator has reinforced my belief that lasting change comes through education, empowerment, and science-driven action. Over the past 16 years, I have worked in over 65 countries, leading field research, restoration projects, and immersive educational programs that connect people directly with the ocean’s wonders and challenges. Through storytelling, hands-on learning, and community engagement, I strive to inspire a sense of stewardship and urgency in everyone I meet. Pursuing a Master of Science degree in Artificial Intelligence with a focus on oceanic applications will equip me with powerful new tools to address some of the ocean’s most complex problems. Technology like machine learning, remote sensing, and data analysis can revolutionize how we monitor ecosystems, predict changes, and design effective conservation strategies. By combining my deep field experience with advanced AI skills, I plan to develop innovative solutions that improve marine biodiversity assessments, track pollution sources, and optimize restoration efforts. More than just advancing research, I intend to use this degree to bridge the gap between cutting-edge science and community action. My goal is to create accessible, data-driven platforms that empower local stakeholders, policymakers, and educators worldwide to make informed decisions that protect marine environments. I am passionate about making science inclusive and actionable, especially for underserved communities that depend on healthy oceans for their survival. In a rapidly changing world, the ocean faces unprecedented threats that require fresh perspectives and interdisciplinary approaches. I believe that blending marine biology with AI offers a unique opportunity to unlock new insights and scale conservation impact globally. My vision is to lead projects that harness technology to restore ecosystems, safeguard fisheries, and raise public awareness, all while fostering collaboration across borders and cultures. Ultimately, protecting our oceans is not just about preserving nature, it’s about sustaining human life and culture. The ocean’s health is inseparable from our own, and I am committed to dedicating my skills, passion, and leadership to ensure that future generations inherit a thriving, vibrant blue planet. I'd love to connect and meet you all. Thank you for your time and support for our beautiful oceans and all that inhabit them. Respectfully, Cody Miller

Why I’m a Strong Candidate for the Solgaard Scholars Scholarship My name is Cody Miller, and I’m a marine biologist, global educator, and LGBTQ+ advocate with a deep and unwavering commitment to protecting our oceans and empowering others to do the same. Over the past 16+ years, I’ve lived and worked in more than 65 countries across six continents, leading more than 200 international programs that connect people, especially youth, with the power and beauty of the ocean. I’ve spent over 400 days at sea, logged more than 150 dives, and worked hands-on in projects ranging from coral reef restoration to invasive species management and fisheries data collection. What drives me most is purpose. I’ve seen firsthand how ocean degradation affects vulnerable communities, wildlife, and future generations. I’ve also seen how education and curiosity can spark transformation. My mission is to make marine science accessible, inclusive, and inspiring especially for those who may not always feel represented in the environmental space. As an LGBTQ+ person, I know how powerful it is to be seen and supported. In every expedition I lead or program I design, I strive to make space for diverse voices and identities to feel safe, empowered, and valued. I believe sustainability must also include social equity, and that protecting our planet is deeply tied to how we treat one another. The ocean has always been my greatest teacher. From the first time I snorkeled over a reef as a child, I felt an immediate connection, both awe and responsibility. Over the years, that feeling grew into purpose. Studying oceanic health isn’t just a career path for me; it’s a calling. Our oceans regulate climate, feed billions, and hold incredible biodiversity, yet they’re under constant threat from pollution, overfishing, and warming temperatures. I’m drawn to this field because it bridges science, storytelling, and community action. I want to be part of the generation that not only studies these changes but works actively to reverse them. I’m especially passionate about making marine science more accessible and inclusive so that more people, regardless of background, feel empowered to care for the sea. Studying oceanic health allows me to combine my curiosity, compassion, and commitment into something that can truly help restore balance to our planet. This scholarship speaks directly to my core values: sustainability, inclusivity, boldness, and global citizenship. With support from Solgaard, I will continue my work to protect ocean ecosystems, educate future stewards, and advocate for a world where innovation and impact go hand in hand. I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity to be considered and inspired by your mission to turn design and business into a force for good. Thank you for all that you do for our planet and community. Respectfully, Cody Miller