Our World-Underwater Scholarship Society's new 2016-17 Rolex Scholars are Christopher Millbern, the North American Rolex Scholar, Maya Santangelo, the Australasian Rolex Scholar, and Felix Butschek, the European Rolex Scholar.

The Rolex Scholarship is an opportunity for young people who are interested in an underwater-related career to gain a hands-on introduction to many aquatic disciplines. The Rolex Scholars spends the year traveling and working side-by-side with current leaders in a variety of underwater fields. This range of experience ranges from participating in field studies, underwater research, scientific expeditions, laboratory assignments, equipment testing and design as well as photographic instruction.

Applications are now open for 2017-18 Rolex Scholars and OWUSS interns on the society's webpage.

North American Scholar: Christopher Millbern

University: University of California, Los Angeles

Major: Ecology, Behavior and Evolution

Millbern plans to support marine preserves through responsible ecotourism and help find pragmatic solutions to assist underwater ecosystems. Most important, he wants to give back: “The underwater world has given me a sense of purpose. All I really want is to keep the environment safe and the people who protect and enjoy it even safer.”

European Scholar: Felix Butschek

University: Scottish Association for Marine Science

Major: Marine Science and Arctic Studies

Butschek is most enthusiastic about temperate and polar marine environments and efforts to protect the Arctic regions, which are already heavily affected by climate change. Butschek believes that his experiences during the scholarship year will shape his career in the underwater world and help him share his passion for remote polar seas.

Australasian Scholar: Maya Santangelo

University: James Cook University

Major: Marine Biology

Committed to life as an ocean ambassador, Santangelo hopes to make positive contributions to our world underwater by engaging in scientific research that is critical to developing effective conservation and management of our oceans. She hopes to share this knowledge, shift perspectives and raise awareness to ensure the sustainable use of its resources.