Gia is a senior at Nova Southeastern University, where she is pursuing a degree in Marine Science with minors in Marine Ecology and Pre-Health. Originally from New Jersey, she is passionate about ocean ecosystems, conservation, and environmental education. Her experience at the Washington Youth Summit on the Environment helped inspire her passion for environmental science and sustainability. Her academic interests focus specifically on deep-sea environments, including the unique adaptations of organisms, extreme conditions, and ecological processes. She hopes to pursue a career with the NOAA Corps, where she can contribute to oceanographic research and environmental monitoring. Outside of academics, she enjoys exploring coastal environments, going to the theater, and spending time with her cat.