Article by Jet Edses, Intern at Meet the Sea & Student of Applied Biology at Aeres University of Applied Sciences
I live in a small coastal town in North Holland, where the polder, forest, dunes, beach, and sea all meet. Ever since I was born, I’ve been involved with the School Lifeguard Brigade — thanks to my father, who has been a member since his youth.
At the brigade, I can spend hours gazing out over the water. Sometimes I spot a curious seal head popping above the surface, or a porpoise fin briefly appearing before vanishing again. As I sit there, all kinds of thoughts run through my mind. What is it that we still don’t know about this immense, mysterious body of water? This endless curiosity ultimately led me to study Applied Biology.
Since 2022, I’ve been studying at Aeres University of Applied Sciences in the Netherlands. Over the past three years, I’ve gained broad knowledge about ecosystems, plants, animals, water, and nature as a whole. Although I’m fascinated by biology in its entirety, my true passion lies with water — especially the vast, salty marine environments. My biggest dream is to graduate as a marine biologist, so I can continue to uncover the secrets of the seas and oceans.
But my love for the sea isn’t limited to study and theory. In my free time, I also enjoy being near the water. Whether it’s summer or winter, I regularly walk along the beach with my dog, Charlie. I often go beachcombing as well — searching for washed-up items and natural treasures. Sometimes I come across special finds, like small fish, shells, stranded porpoises or seals, different kinds of starfish, or rare birds.
Besides walking and beachcombing, I also love to surf. In my hometown, you need a bit of luck for good waves, but when they arrive, the line-up is quickly filled with enthusiastic surfers. And when I’m on vacation and there are no waves in sight, you’ll almost always find me in the water — with goggles, snorkel, and fins.
That might actually be what I love doing most. Floating above the colourful, living underwater world, I feel completely in my element. The surprises and breathtaking views beneath the surface are priceless to me. One of my dreams is to someday dive with manta rays and whale sharks.
Later, once I’ve graduated as a marine biologist, I hope to share my knowledge with others. I want to inspire people to look at the ocean differently — with wonder, respect, and love. Because the more we understand, the more we can protect. And if I can spark that same enthusiasm in even just a few people, then my mission is already partly fulfilled.
Jet Edses
12 April 2025
