Young lady sets record at US university, becomes first black woman to earn degree in Marine Science
Aliyah completed her bachelor's degree in Marine Science at Hampton University. Following her undergraduate studies, she continued her academic journey by pursuing a graduate degree in marine sciences at the University of North Carolina.
AKACHI NOEL 
In a historic achievement, Aliyah Griffith, a dedicated student-athlete, has made history by becoming the first-ever Black woman to earn a graduate degree in Marine Sciences at the University of North Carolina in the United States.
Aliyah's journey towards this groundbreaking accomplishment began at a young age when her fascination with marine sciences was sparked during a family trip to SeaWorld at just 5 years old. At the age of 7, she approached a dolphin trainer at the Baltimore Aquarium to inquire about their job, which ultimately solidified her career choice as a marine biologist.
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Determined to pursue her dream, Aliyah completed her bachelor's degree in Marine Science at Hampton University. Following her undergraduate studies, she continued her academic journey by pursuing a graduate degree in marine sciences at the University of North Carolina.
During her time at the University, Aliyah worked in the Castillo Lab, focusing on the impact of global change on the ocean's coral reefs. She also emerged as a strong advocate for diversity in marine sciences, actively working to create opportunities for students of color.
In 2016, Aliyah founded Mahogany Mermaids, an organization dedicated to empowering children of color in the field of aquatic sciences. This organization has been instrumental in providing aquatic science programs for youth, with plans to expand its offerings in the near future.
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Aliyah's commitment to advancing marine sciences doesn't end there. She actively supports graduate students through professional development and other opportunities as a member of the university's Initiative for Minority Excellence and Black Graduate and Professional Student Association.
Aliyah's journey is far from over, as she prepares to pursue her doctorate degree in marine sciences at the same university. Her current focus lies in coral conservation efforts in Barbados, which holds a deeply personal connection for her as her family's place of origin. Aliyah hopes to make a lasting impact on coral conservation by redefining the methodology used to monitor and assess coral reefs.
