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Why did you choose to study at NTU?

I was personally looking for somewhere that wasn’t too far away from home, but I could still move out and live in halls, giving me my first introduction to independent living. I attended an open day and felt very welcomed and impressed by the facilities. I just knew it was the university for me. The facilities are great and the overall welcoming atmosphere made me feel that I could be a part of NTU. The lecturers are really passionate about their teaching subject so it was really motivating.

What did you enjoy about your course?

The course covers vast content and provides you with great knowledge. I have particularly liked the Ecology based modules such as Principles of Ecology and Ecosystem Ecology and the UK field study module. I also really enjoyed the practical's and trips on this course. Being able to learn practically is really helpful and enjoyable. Our course tutors were lovely and welcoming. All our course tutors and lecturers are very passionate about their subject which is really motivating and engaging.

What did you learn - both inside and outside of lectures?

Within lectures I learned about ecological processes, biodiversity, animal ecology, plant ecology, habitat maintenance and many other subjects that I thoroughly enjoyed. I also gained lots of knowledge and understanding within the practical sessions. As part of my course, I learned how to use GIS which I use on a daily basis in my role as a Catchment Advisor.

Did you do a placement year, and if so, what did you do?

I was working voluntary at the Leicestershire Wildlife Hospital and with the Leicester City Council Environmental volunteers. With the Leicestershire Wildlife Hospital I worked with many different species. I was involved in the care and rehabilitation of ill, injured and orphaned wildlife. I was also able to be involved in their releases. While with the Leicester City Council, I worked with a group of adults and a Leicester City Council ranger and completed habitat management around the city. This involved creating habitat for different species, removing invasive species and maintaining trees and shrubs. My placements has helped me gain knowledge of different species and become confident when completing habitat management.

What have you been up to since graduating?

In January 2022 I started at Severn Trent as a River Ranger, since then in November 2023 I changed roles and became a Catchment Advisor. I also regularly volunteer at the Leicestershire Wildlife Hospital.

What does your current day involve?

The Catchment Team within Severn Trent looks at water quality data in regard to our drinking water and mitigate ways which the quality can be improved. We work closely with the agricultural team who speak with farmers and promote best agricultural practices and Severn Trent’s environmental protection schemes. My day-to-day can involve sampling within a catchment, looking at water quality data and going out into a catchment to look for risks.

What have been your highlights and biggest challenges of your career so far?

My biggest challenge so far in my career was probably applying for jobs and attending interviews once I had finished university. It was all quite scary. My highlights include being on BBC West Midlands and being asked by Severn Trent to be in some of their internal videos talking about River quality in my role as River Ranger.

Finally, is there anything else you'd like to share with our student community?

Enjoy your time at university, it shapes you as a person and will help guide you into becoming the person you are meant to be.