Leslie Finlay is a current O’Neill Online MPA candidate who works as a marine conservationist on Koh Tao in Surat Thani, Thailand. She comes to O’Neill with more than four years of experience in the diving industry including teaching, communications, public relations and journalism.
I needed a program that would deliver top-tier coursework while complementing my goals in the field.
Why did you choose the O’Neill Online MPA program?
I needed a program that would deliver top-tier coursework while complementing my goals in the field. My area of marine conservation is a relatively new one and O’Neill promised a strong base in the field of public management and administration to apply across any industry. The flexibility of the program is what initially attracted me, but the staff, faculty and student engagement drove my decision. From the time I began the application process, advisor responsiveness and support has been consistently outstanding, and the spirit continued into each class. My initial reservations about online study have instead turned out to be strengths of this program. Professors provide insightful, consistent guidance while the breadth of classmate experience has proven to be an invaluable resource.
How has the flexibility of the online program helped you to balance all of your responsibilities?
The nature of my work makes scheduling incredibly unpredictable. Some days I’m out on the water for 16 hours, while others I'm giving lectures or taking cover from monsoon season writing teaching manuals. Then there's the time difference, and we don't have weekends. A traditional, strictly scheduled program was never going to be possible for me to manage, and I know people who constantly struggle with such arrangements.
What is your current position?
I work in marine conservation. The projects I’m involved with range from marine biology research assistance to active ecosystem restoration, but my main passion is for education and awareness, especially across cultures. I believe that education of populations is crucial for progress. This is especially important in regions like Southeast Asia where understanding of environmental issues has been traditionally limited. On occasion I still teach scuba and freediving, though not as often as I would like!
Is there anything else you would like prospective students to know about you or your experience in the program?
The coursework can be heavy and commitment and discipline are absolutely required, but the emphasis on engagement and discussion helps facilitate focus. I learn just as much from my classmates as I do from reading material and lectures, which is something I would not have necessarily expected. Participation is key to success in these courses and is what keeps you driven.
