Daisy-Jane Buck, a Journalism major who is also minoring in International Affairs, chose to create a senior project featuring the Scientific Diving class. Inside UGA’s Marine Science Building is a quiet pool with a big purpose. Each week, students in the university’s scientific diving program attend lectures on Tuesdays, then suit up on Thursdays to apply what they’ve learned underwater. Originally built in 1928 as the Woman’s Physical Education Building, the space now serves the scientific diving program exclusively. “Since it was wet,” said Dr. Scott Noakes, “it was argued that Marine Science should have the pool.” The course began in 2014 with 17 students. Today, it fills up fast—with 47 students maxing out the class this semester. “I’ve been trying to get into this class for a while now,” said Charlie Boykin, a UGA finance and real estate major. “And I just made it for the spring of my senior year.” A new minor in scientific diving is expected to launch in the Fall of 2026, combining marine biology and diving for a unique academic experience. “It’s a tough field to get into,” Dr. Noakes said, “but if you get in, it is quite rewarding.” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gJ5Xq1gReRg Type of News/Audience: Student spotlight
