After graduating from GESS in 2016, Abigail set sights on a career in marine biology—but not before embracing a unique seven-month gap filled with travel, diving, and self-discovery. From earning her Divemaster certification in Indonesia to immersing herself in research at the University of Queensland, she has followed her passion for the ocean wherever it leads. Today, she holds a PhD in marine biology and neuroscience and continues to explore new frontiers in molecular biology and biotechnology. Her journey—rooted in adaptability, and hands-on experience—began at GESS and now spans coral reefs, world-class labs, and classrooms where she inspires the next generation of researchers.
Hi Abigail, when were you at GESS?
I studied in GESS from 2006 – 2016.
When did you graduate?
I graduated in 2016.
What did you do after graduating from GESS? Did you immediately enrolled in university or explored other paths?
When I graduated from GESS, I knew I wanted to go to university to study marine biology. However, since Australian universities start in February and I graduated in May 2016 from GESS, I had seven months to explore before beginning my studies.
I spent part of that time travelling around Europe, then made my way to Indonesia, where I lived for a few months and became a certified Divemaster. It was a great excuse to be in the ocean every day, but along the way, I developed skills I didn’t expect – working in dynamic environments, adaptability to new challenges and teamwork. Eventually, these skills proved to be not only valuable for diving, but also essential for moving to university life and pursuing a PhD.
Are you still studying now? If yes, what are you studying?
I always knew I wanted to study marine biology because it fascinated me from a young age. But when I got to university, I quickly realised just how vast the field was—biogeography, conservation, coral reef fish biology, aquaculture, marine microplastics, population genetics…the list seemed endless!
To explore my interests, I volunteered and took on research positions in multiple research groups within the University of Queensland and at other universities. This hands-on experience helped me figure out what I enjoyed and, maybe more importantly, what I didn’t. Overall, what I realised was that I was endlessly curious about the challenges in marine science and felt a real sense of adventure in trying to solve them. Surprisingly, the areas that intrigued me the most were molecular biology and neuroscience. However, it wasn’t through coursework that I discovered this passion, but rather through working in a lab group where I was exposed to the research firsthand.
That curiosity led me to pursue an Honours year—a research-focused additional year of study in Australia—where I had the opportunity to dive deeper into a specific project. From there, my passion for research only grew, making further studies in a PhD a natural next step.
Are you also currently working? Can you share more about your work experience?
Over the past few years, I’ve had the chance to explore some exciting research adventures. I’ve worked as a research assistant in a variety of labs in Australia and Europe, which has been incredibly rewarding. One of my absolute highlights was spending months at a time on Lizard Island in the Great Barrier Reef, where I got to immerse myself in multiple marine research projects. It was certainly the office with the best view! More recently, I worked with some collaborators at Charles University in the Czech Republic, where we dove into electrophysiology and visual ecology experiments.
When I’m not doing research, I’ve also worked in a range of casual roles, including at an aquatic consultancy for three years and participating in STEM outreach programmes. One of my favourite jobs must be teaching university students on Heron Island on the Great Barrier Reef. I get to help them with their own fieldwork projects and, hopefully, inspire them to develop the same passion for the reef that my tutors sparked in me when I took the course.
And just recently, after submitting my PhD thesis, I’ve started an internship at the Australian Genome Research Facility. It has been a fantastic opportunity to expand my knowledge in molecular biology and biotechnology while working on exciting projects outside of academia.
Overall, it has been a diverse and rewarding journey, and I’m looking forward to what lies ahead!
What was your favourite memory of GESS while you were studying?
It’s hard to pick just one favourite memory from GESS, as so many moments stand out. However, the Project Weeks were always particularly special. Each year, we had the opportunity to travel to places like India, Bintan and Bali. These experiences brought on a sense of connection and teamwork as we took on new challenges together as a class. At the end of the week, it always brought us closer together and created stronger friendships.
What do you miss about Singapore and your life here?
I miss the vibrant, bustling and multicultural life of Singapore. The hawker centres stood out—not just for the incredible food, but for being a perfect spot for late-night hangouts.
Another thing I really miss about Singapore is how perfectly located it is in Southeast Asia, making it a short flight away to nearby countries such as Thailand, Malaysia, Philippines or Indonesia. We were lucky to have so many amazing holidays each year, travelling to new places and experiencing different cultures. I also had the chance to visit incredible coral reefs, which sparked my passion for the marine world.
I also can’t forget the Bukit Tinggi campus, nestled in the middle of the jungle. It was such a unique setting, and it made for some unforgettable memories. I’ll always remember the monkeys stealing bags and lunchboxes—it’s one of those stories I love sharing with new friends! Those experiences made life in Singapore one of a kind.
How did GESS shape or help your academic and personal development? What have you learned from GESS that you still carry with you?
During Year 12, as part of the IB programme, students are tasked with writing an extended essay. Naturally, I gravitated towards Biology, but I soon realised that traditional lab experiments didn’t ignite the excitement I was searching for.
When the opportunity to volunteer with the Whale Shark Research Programme came up, I felt immediate excitement. Ms Walton was incredibly encouraging and pushed me to pursue what truly excited me. This opportunity not only solidified my passion for marine science but also taught me the value of following my curiosity and finding excitement in real-world, hands-on learning.
Are you still in touch with any friends from GESS? Are you planning to have reunions with them in the future?
A few! Almost all my friends decided to go to Europe for University, and I decided to go in a different direction of the world – Australia. It’s a long way to travel but I try catching up when possible! 😊
Is there any piece of advice or any experience you would like to share with the current GESS students?
The area of study you choose for university doesn’t lock you into a specific future! Choosing what to study can be challenging, but there are so many pathways and options to explore.
I studied Marine Biology at university, did a PhD in marine biology and neuroscience, and now I’m doing an internship in Molecular Biology and Biotechnology. While all these experiences may seem different, they’ve all shaped my journey and led me to where I am now. I would never have predicted my path to look like this, and honestly, I’m still figuring out exactly what I want to be when I “grow up”. Somehow, the best experiences have been from the ones I don’t plan for.
