Jennifer Abery MSc Environmental Science, 2016

Undergraduate

I chose Southampton because I liked the layout of the course and the topics covered. The department also seemed to genuinely care about their students' employability after university, with a high percentage of students getting jobs in the environment sector. The course at Southampton also gives you more practical experience of working in the field than other universities I looked at.

 

1. Brief summary of your time at Southampton?

I am studying Environmental Science, specialising in Biodiversity and Conservation. I have covered modules from several departments, including Environmental Sciences, Biology, Geography and Oceanography. I have also had a committee role in the Environmental Science student society, where I organised conservation trips with the local council (Test Valley).

2. Why did you choose to come to Southampton?

I chose Southampton because I liked the layout of the course and the topics covered. The department also seemed to genuinely care about their student’s employability after University, with a high percentage of students getting jobs in the environment sector. The course at Southampton also gives you more practical experience of working in the field than other universities I looked at. 

3. What have you enjoyed most about your course?

There have been several field trips as part of the course, which have to be a highlight for me. As well as being enjoyable, they have given me practical skills in field work, project organisation and working in teams.

4. Would you recommend your course to other students?

Definitely. I would recommend this course to anyone looking to pursue an environmental based career. All the lecturers are approachable and the course gives you plenty of the skills required to work in this field. There are only a small number of people on the course, so you get to know everyone which gives the department a community feel which I really like.

5. Have you undertaken a project as part of your course? What was your favourite part?

There have been a number of occasions where we have undertaken project work during the course, which has included both individual and group work. The fieldtrips have been my favourite part, but also getting to work with and get to know a variety of people from the course.

6. What are your lecturers and tutors like? Have you found them supportive?

The lecturers in the Environmental Science department are all approachable and supportive. They seem to care about their students and help with any problems we may have.

7. How are you finding your placement and what are you doing?

I did my placement with the Countryside Officers at Test Valley Borough Council. This job encompasses a variety of responsibilities, including managing and protecting the Local Nature Reserves and outdoor education in the local communities. I have thoroughly enjoyed my placement, and it has given me practical experience in working in this sector.

8. What have you learnt and how have you benefitted from the experience so far?

Working for a government body was not something I initially thought of as a career, however I am now hoping to get a similar job when I graduate and believe this placement will have given me the experience required. I have learnt how to communicate with external contractors, as well as other departments within the council, and practical skills involved in land management which I have not gained from my degree. The placement has given me experience of working in a professional environment, in which I am representing a company/public body when communicating with members of the public. This is again a valuable experience which you don’t necessarily gain from a university.

9. Why did you choose to do your summer placement at this company?

I have worked with the Countryside Officers at the council previously, when organising conservation trips, and wanted to see if it was the kind of career I would like to pursue in the future.

10. What are your career plans after you’ve completed your course?

I would like to work in wildlife conservation, for a conservation charity or a Government body, such as a local council or DEFRA.

11. How do you think your course will help you in your future career?

I think my course has given me a variety of skills which will help me to get a job in the area I want to. I have gained practical skills in outdoor countryside management, as well as project work, report writing, team work and knowledge of current environmental issues and possible solutions.

12. If you could give prospective students one piece of advice, what would it be?

Make the most of your time at university, and enjoy it! Make the most of any work experience offered, as this is what really enhances your CV.