Riding the Waves of Passion: Marta Malia

Meet Marta Malia Correro, a passionate surfer and dedicated student who recently won the II Regional Championship of university surf competition last November. It was organized by UCV Sport Unit and the Mediterranean Surf School.

Born and raised in the coastal town of Cadiz, Spain, Marta shared some insights into the profound connection between surfing and pursuing a master’s degree in Marine Biotechnology.

What does surfing mean to you?

Surfing is a fundamental part of my life. I’m from Cadiz, the south of Spain, and I’ve always lived very close to the sea. I started surfing when I was 7 years old and since then it has been a constant in my life. I have also worked as a surf instructor, and whenever my studies allow the opportunity to travel and surf, I do so.

The surf CADU, organised by the UCV, has been an incredible experience. Initiatives like this, which promote the sport, are beneficial to both beginners and more experienced surfers.

Why did you choose this master’s degree, and what do you feel you will gain from being in different campuses/universities?

I’ve always dreamt of being a scientist and a surfer. One of the reasons why I decided to study this master’s degree is because it allows me to be close to the sea.

When I finished my undergraduate studies in Biotechnology, I did an Erasmus internship in a marine research centre in Peniche, Portugal, which one of the most famous surfing destinations. That’s when I came to the conclusion that the Erasmus Mundus Master in Marine Biotechnology was the perfect way to combine my studies with my passions.

Moreover, this master is a unique opportunity to travel to other countries, meet new people, learn languages, and immerse myself in other cultures. I have just finished the first semester in Valencia, and in mid-January, my classmates and I will move to La Rochelle, France, to start the second semester. We have become a big family, and we are very excited to start the next stage together. This dynamic aspect of the joint master’s program not only broadens academic horizons but also provides a unique opportunity to savour the richness of campus life, nurturing a community of young minds eager to contribute to a united and dynamic European future.

View the photo gallery of the event here: II CADU SURF photo album