Graduate lands job to study marine mammals in Hawaii

From Peru to Louisiana to Hawaii, Romina Carnero, '22 with a master's in biology, exemplifies what hard work and the Fulbright Program make possible for students! Romina discovered a passion for marine animals while studying biology as an undergraduate in Lima, spending her time outside of class working with a rescue group that helped rehabilitate common bottlenose dolphins. When she found out that Fulbright scholarships were available to help recently graduated students pursue graduate studies in America, she knew she had to go for it — even when she wasn't accepted on her first application.

Once accepted, Fulbright connected Romina to Laspau, an organization that brings together students and institutions across the Americas, which led her to discover UL Lafayette. Her work with adjunct research professor Dr. Patricia Rosel at NOAA's Marine Mammal Molecular Genetics Laboratory led to the realization of her master's thesis topic and, finally, to a job with the Pacific Whale Foundation in Hawaii. She credits the University's Office of International Affairs staff for the kindness and understanding exhibited in their work with international students and fellow Fulbrighters Dr. Rose Honneger, associate director of Global Engagement, and Dr. Loren Cassin-Sackett, assistant professor of biology, for helping her every step of the way since arriving in Louisiana.

Congratulations, Romina, and best of luck with your new career on Maui!

If you have recently graduated from college and are interested in pursuing a graduate degree overseas, visit Fulbright's website to see if you qualify for a grant!