Jack Covey MEnvSci Environmental Sciences
Current student
The best resource the university has provided me throughout my degree is a platform to connect with other like-minded individuals. This has allowed me to pursue a range of different subject areas within the environmental science field and given me far clearer direction for my future career.
Why did you choose to study at the University of Southampton?
The University of Southampton Open Day was the first time I had ever visited a university campus, I was blown away by how large the Highfield campus was and also pleasantly surprised by all of the green space on the campus; being someone who loves spending time outdoors this was a massive plus point for me. Academically, I was aware of Southampton’s strong reputation and also the fact that it was one of the leading places in the UK to study environmental sciences with some of the best academics. The combination of these factors as well as the welcoming feel of the Open Day was what made me choose the University of Southampton.
What has been the highlight of your time here so far?
Joining Enactus Southampton has been the highlight of my time at university. Enactus is a Social Enterprise society where students create social ventures that help tackle complex social and environmental issues sustainably. Being a part of this society has allowed me to grow personally and professionally and opened the door to a range of other opportunities. I have been to conferences in London and New York, secured a work placement at the Council, arranged events and helped to develop two impactful social enterprises in the last three years whilst making some great friends. Being an active member of Enactus is one of the main reasons I have been privileged enough to have these experiences that have enhanced my university experience.
What do you enjoy about living in Southampton?
Southampton is a very student friendly city, and there are plenty of affordable places to eat and drink that love to accommodate students. As an environmentalist, being in relatively close proximity to The New Forest is a huge plus as it’s nice to go for a day trip there on the weekends for some time off and away from work.
How have the university’s facilities helped you within your course?
The best resource the university has provided me throughout my degree is a platform to connect with other like-minded individuals. This has allowed me to pursue a range of different subject areas within the environmental science field and given me far clearer direction for my future career. The use of a number of otherwise expensive software packages for free such as SPSS, ArcGIS and IDRISI have allowed me to become proficient in these programmes that are widely utilised in professional environments.
What have you enjoyed most about your course so far?
I have been on two residential field trips during my course, one to Exeter and one to Swanage. Whilst these not be the most glamorous of places to visit, both trips have been great fun and a good chance to interact with everyone on the course, including the lecturers. They have also been excellent opportunities for designing and conducting research. With Swanage being in third year, it was particularly encouraging to see how much everyone had improved in this area since our trip to Exeter in first year.
If you could offer prospective students one piece of advice, what would it be?
Obviously you are at university to study a degree but there are so many more opportunities available in extra-curricular activities. Some of the best memories, friends and opportunities that have come my way throughout the last four years have been off the back of my extra-curricular activities. This may mean joining societies outside your area of expertise (I got involved with social enterprise) and even if you don’t know what you’re doing initially, say yes, be bold, be confident, make it happen and you will learn and grow as much as you do in your degree and have a great time along the way.