Julia Singer works as a marine scientist for Oceana, a nonprofit ocean conservation organization that works to influence policy. “SPA taught me how to gear my policy knowledge towards a specific audience,” she shared. “Specifically, the policy practicum gave me hands-on experience in communicating environmental conservation information to government entities, allowing me to develop skills I still use today.” Singer enjoys the variety in her position. “In one week, I may attend scientific conferences on right whale monitoring; talk with Congressional staff to work towards increased federal protections; or travel to a coastal community to discuss conservation with stakeholders and advocates.”