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From an eager marine‑science undergraduate to a frontline research officer protecting our nation’s coral reefs, Hamdha shows how an MNU education can launch a purpose‑driven career.

Hamdha Hussain Rasheed graduated from MNU’s College of Fisheries and Ocean Sciences with a BSc in Marine Science in April 2025. Hands‑on industry placements and a cultural‑exchange trip to Japan (JENESYS) shaped her confidence, leadership, and field skills. Hamdha credits MNU’s supportive, like‑minded community and practical learning environment for her success, and advises new graduates to be self‑sufficient, dynamic, and ready to take on responsibility.

Hamdha Hussain Rasheed 

BSc Marine Science, Class of 2025

College of Fisheries and Ocean Sciences, The Maldives National University

Why She Picked MNU

From a childhood spent exploring coral reefs to leading reef‑based fieldwork for the Maldives Marine Research Institute, Hamdha has always felt the pull of the ocean. Choosing The Maldives National University, she says, was an easy decision: “MNU is the most competent and qualified institution to complete a hands-on degree in this major.”

A Degree Built on Real‑World Experience

For Hamdha, the defining moment of her studies was representing MNU on the JENESYS cultural‑exchange project in Japan. Immersed in a different maritime culture, she realised how global cooperation can accelerate local conservation efforts. Equally formative were her industry placements arranged through the University. “Working side‑by‑side with professionals in the field gave me the confidence and leadership skills I rely on every day.” she explains. Those placements, collecting reef data, analysing fish stocks, and leading small research teams—honed the initiative, social responsibility and discipline that employers prize.

Career Journey: Reef to Research

Hamdha secured her first role as a Marine Research Officer at the Maldives Marine Research Institute, drawing on the fieldwork résumé she built at MNU. Today she:

  • Conducts reef‑based fisheries sampling across the atolls

  • Delivers training workshops for early‑career researchers

  • Contributes data that informs national marine‑resource policy

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Working side‑by‑side with professionals in the field gave me the confidence and leadership skills I rely on every day,

Hamdha Hussain RasheedMarine Research Officer
Hamdha’s Top Tip for New Graduates

“A graduate role in a field like this can be landed by being self-sufficient and hardworking. In sectors where there is a lack of personnel, being dynamic and taking on responsibility with confidence can lead you to great places. ”

 
What She Loved Most About MNU

““The likeminded community and the professional networks I built—those connections continue to shape my career.”

Hamdha’s journey is a testament to the power of immersive learning and bold initiative. Her story shows future MNU students that with passion, practical experience, and a supportive community, a rewarding marine‑science career is well within reach.

Explore Marine Science programmes at MNU,