I Got Hired: Francesca

Posted on: 12 October 2024 by Ruby O'Sullivan in Class of 2023

Francesca Paros is a Class of 2023 Masters in Ocean Science graduate who is now working as a Marine Data Manager at the National Oceanography Centre.

How did you hear about your role and decide to apply for it?

I first heard about the role of Marine Data Manager at the British Oceanographic Data Centre (BODC), part of the National Oceanography Centre, through their official website. As someone deeply passionate about marine science, I frequently visited NOC's site, knowing them to be at the forefront of marine science and innovation in the UK. The prospect of working at such a renowned institution was incredibly appealing.

During my Masters in Ocean Science (MOsci) at The University of Liverpool, I discovered my strong interest in aspects of marine science beyond ecology, specifically those that provide critical context for marine life such as Marine Chemistry, Palaeoceanography, and Data Science. The role at BODC perfectly aligned with my interests and skills, offering an ideal platform to merge my academic background with my enthusiasm for marine data management. Recognising the opportunity to contribute to significant marine science projects, I decided to apply, eager to take on the challenge and advance my career in this exciting and vital domain.

How did you get to where you are now? 

My journey became its most fruitful from taking advantage of the opportunities around me during studying. In my second year at the university; I completed a pivotal short course of study in Bermuda at the Bermuda Institute of Ocean Sciences (BIOS), where I was taught my experts in the field about coral reef ecology. This experience was invaluable, providing me with the essential lab skills and the opportunity to engage in group study tasks with people from all over the world.

Committing to an integrated master's degree further refined my skills. The opportunity to complete another independent project gave me the chance to take on feedback from my bachelor's project and further improve. The hands-on experience during these projects was instrumental in preparing me for a career in marine science - especially during COVID-19 where practical experience was difficult to obtain.

Upon graduating, I secured an internship opportunity with The Sea Watch Foundation, Anglesey, where I assisted in observing marine mammals. During this two-month period, I naturally gravitated towards managing their data from boat and land surveys and creating statistical figures and maps which solidified my interest and proficiency in marine data management.

The support I received from the Career Studio at the university was critical in my application process. They reviewed my CV and provided interview advice, helping me to present my qualifications and experiences effectively. Additionally, my partner and family were extremely supportive during my interview preparation, offering encouragement and feedback.

Your favourite experience as part of your role?

My favourite experience as part of my role at BODC has been the outreach opportunities and the flexibility to incorporate my interests into my work. Additionally, the friendliness, kindness, and inspiration of the staff around me have made my experience truly enjoyable.

For outreach, I had the incredible opportunity to visit the Southampton National Oceanography Centre, where I spent time talking to families and school children about the importance of metadata. I also helped the British Oceanographic Sediment Core Research Facility (BOSCORF) at their stand, discussing foraminifera and their visual differences due to environmental conditions under the microscope. These experiences allowed me to share my passion and hopefully inspire the next generation of scientists!

The flexibility in my role has been equally rewarding. I have been able to incorporate my personal interests, such as assisting BOSCORF due to my enthusiasm for palaeoceanography. Once my training is completed, I will also have the chance to manage data from various projects that particularly appeal to me. This adaptability has not only enhanced my skills but also kept my work engaging and aligned with my passions.

The most challenging part of your graduate journey?

The most challenging part of my graduate journey was dealing with rejections from job/ further study applications. It was difficult at times to remain confident in myself, and I did struggle to stay motivated and push forward. The limited funding in the marine science industry further compounded the challenge making it tough to secure a fulfilling position.

There were times when it was hard to maintain focus and resilience. It's easy to feel let down in such situations, but I had to keep reminding myself that every rejection meant that a better opportunity was waiting around the corner. Staying positive and persistent was crucial, and in the end, it proved true as I found a role that truly aligned with my passions and skills.

Top 3 Tips for current students and graduates.

1. Make the most of networking and practical experiences: Take full advantage of every networking event and opportunity, especially those offering practical experience. Networking is crucial in any field, and gaining hands-on experience is essential for building a comprehensive understanding of the industry. Explore beyond your degree to get a broader perspective and diverse skill set.
2. Believe in yourself and manage pressure: Stay confident and resilient, even when facing challenges in your studies and applications. The process can be mentally taxing, so don't hesitate to take a break when needed. Sometimes a fresh perspective can be incredibly beneficial.
3. Plan and strategize: Research potential job opportunities and work backward to determine the experience and skills required. This proactive approach helps you target relevant experiences and positions yourself effectively for your career path.

 
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