Valentina DaCosta

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Tell us a bit about your current role

I have just started my 3rd year of PhD studies at Heriot-Watt University and The Lyell Centre, where I study the role of marine protected area networks in the Southeast Pacific for the conservation of migratory species. I also work as a consultant for the Convention on Migratory Species of Wild Animals. I co-direct the US-based non-profit Cet Law, where with three lawyer colleagues, we do volunteer work for the legal protection of cetaceans and their habitats.

What is the most enjoyable part of your role?

What I enjoy the most, and am most grateful about across my different roles, is the privilege of making a living from reading and learning about creatures I have always found fascinating, like cetaceans. I love to feel that my work is meaningful for conserving something I care about. It makes every effort worthwhile.

What part of your role do you find the most challenging?

I find it challenging that integrating scientific knowledge into legal practice can sometimes be time-consuming, which I believe is associated with slower progress of legal frameworks compared to the faster-passed development of scientific knowledge.

It is an exercise of trusting that the right way forward and the opportunities to breach these obstacles will come at the right moment.

Do you have any advice for students looking for employment?

Be outspoken about your intentions to pursue a path and confidently reach out to those you would like to work with. There are incredible opportunities, but you must put yourself out there, knock on doors, and trust the process. I believe excellent and constant work always pays back.

Tell us a bit about your time at Edinburgh

My life has changed a lot since I started the process of applying to an MSc at the University of Edinburgh in the second semester of 2018. I was working at an international law firm in litigation. Although it was a work full of intellectual and professional challenges, I always knew I wanted to invest my potential into working for something I've always been passionate about: the ocean.

The University of Edinburgh allowed me to combine my background in Law with a general understanding of marine ecosystems and marine science. During my time studying the MSc Marine Systems and Policies, I got the chance to share with marine biologists, economists, and even fishers! I got the opportunity to study subjects I knew I was interested in, but I had never truly understood. Our field trip to the Maldives was unforgettable; we had the chance to scuba dive and practised simple experiments on data collection from tropical coral reefs.

The student experience was, of course, cross-cut by the pandemic, an event that has affected everyone in the world in different ways. The first semester before the pandemic was terrific; we got very close with the people from the programme and got to travel around Scotland quite a lot! But when quarantine came, different challenges started. Luckily, outstanding professors from the School of Geosciences and Law School were always willing to support me through the process. I got the chance to talk and interact with amazing people during my time in lockdown. Overall, the master's experience was challenging (both academically and personally). Still, it allowed me to confirm I want to continue working every day to conserve the ocean and its biodiversity.

What was the highlight of your studies with us?

My highlight is the incredible networking opportunities that the University of Edinburgh offers. From the professors to your peers in the classrooms, you will meet amazing people who will shape your career's progress if you pursue collaborations and keep in touch.

Do you have any advice for current students?

Be patient and constant. Sometimes we feel we must achieve everything now, but things happen at the correct time, and all of us have our paths, advantages, and setbacks. Try to enjoy the ride!