.png){kind=logo}
The high school graduation requirement of 50 volunteer hours may seem daunting. However, if you’re enthusiastic about marine life and want to make a meaningful impact in your community (while conveniently fulfilling those hours), the Seattle Aquarium’s Youth Ocean Advocates (YOA) program could be the perfect fit.
The YOA program invites students in grades nine through 12 to support the Aquarium’s mission of inspiring marine conservation. During the school year, volunteers commit to at least three activities per month, each lasting three to five hours. These activities range from educating guests and participating in conservation campaigns to creating content for the Aquarium’s social media. Volunteers also take part in outdoor service events such as beach cleanups and habitat restoration projects. Moreover, students develop lasting friendships and gain hands-on experience.
Before diving in, volunteers complete 20 hours of training through in-person workshops and online sessions covering marine science, conservation topics and public communication strategies.
“I’m a member of the Green Collective, a student-run environmental nonprofit. We’ve cleaned trash around the Seattle Aquarium and Pike Place area. I’ve watched environmental stewards from the Aquarium also get involved with cleanup and make a difference,” senior Melissa Tran said.
What truly sets this opportunity apart is the supportive community it cultivates. Many BHS students return year after year, creating a dedicated network of young environmental advocates. For those considering careers in marine biology, education or environmental policy, the YOA program is a great opportunity to get experience in those fields.
Applications for the 2025–2026 YOA program are open now through September 1. A separate summer session opens for applications in January. Interested students can learn more and apply at seattleaquarium.org/youth-ocean-advocates. With limited spots and strong participation from BHS, early application is encouraged. This coming year, dive into a cause that matters and that happens to be right here in your own backyard.
