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Aquarium of the Pacific - A Non-profit Organization
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High Tide Film Categories

For Southern California High School and College Students

Black and white photo of ocean waves crashing on a rocky coast

High School

Southern California HS students currently enrolled in grade 9-12 can submit to High School Category A or High School Category B.

High School Category A: Ocean Wildlife and the Environment

Select One:

  • Pick a specific species, for example: whales, sharks, jellyfish, sea turtles, octopus, seals, sea lions, seabirds, crabs, sea stars, garibaldi, or other marine life. Tell us about that one specific animal species, what is unique about it and what interests you about that animal?
  • Delve into the intricate world of a coastal habitat teeming with biodiversity. Explore a kelp forest, coral reef, tidepool, wetland, estuary, marshland or sandy beach. What narrative can you share about this ecosystem?

High School Category B: Coastal Cultures and Traditions

Communities living along coastlines are often deeply intertwined with the sea and its resources. Your film might focus on traditional practices, lifestyles, ocean adventures (sports, travel), ports, or food systems.

College

Undergraduate college students currently enrolled in a 2-year community college or 4-year college/university that is located in Southern California can submit to the College Category.

College Category:

Ocean and Coastal Ecosystems, their Conservation, and/or Discoveries

Your film should be focused on a specific topic and explore a single subject or element of a story that falls within one of these universal themes:

  • Ocean explorations, expeditions and discoveries
  • Technology and innovations for ocean health
  • Ocean ecosystems and their inhabitants
  • Research and conservation
  • Community science programs