What was your first job after graduating - Could you tell us about the process of discovering the opportunity and applying to it?   

I am an Ecologist and my responsibilities include surveying protected species such as bats, great crested newts, badgers and reptiles, and their habitats. I analyse the data we collect and write reports to make assessments of the value of sites and recommendations to avoid or mitigate detrimental impacts on wildlife by proposed developments. 

When looking for a job, I was fed up with searching for job advertisements and instead decided to research different companies that I would be interested in working for based on their work. I then approached them through email, explaining that I was looking for an opportunity for when I finish University and asking if I could send a CV over. As it happened, my current employer needed someone to start around that time, so they invited me in for an interview. 

From the skills gained during your time at Manchester Met, which have you used most in your career so far?  

I use report writing skills and data analysis skills which I learned throughout my degree. The most valuable skills I use are species identification and survey techniques that we were taught during fieldwork and laboratory sessions.  

Outside of the course teaching, what other opportunities did you get involved in during your time at Manchester Met?

I took a voluntary summer placement with the Sheffield and Rotherham Wildlife Trust between my second and third year. This experience was invaluable. I loved it and learned so much and I was able to assist in surveying for a range of different species including birds. 

During the same summer, I also attended the British Ecological Society Summer School; a week jam-packed with educational activities, talks and laboratory sessions. The Summer School was free and was so useful as a taster of all the different career paths you can pursue with a Natural Sciences degree. Following this, I was able to apply for and was awarded a bursary to use for training opportunities and equipment to aid my career.  

What advice would you give to students who aspire to a career in Natural Sciences?   

Get involved with as much as you can. Volunteer and seek out your own opportunities. It’s the skills you gain on placements and voluntary work that really make you stand out when applying for jobs. Opportunities are not always easy to find, so don’t be afraid of approaching companies yourself. 

Start looking at job advertisements early, even if you’re in your second year. You can use the job requirements as something to work towards so that you’re equipped with the right skills when you graduate. 

What are your plans for the future?  

I’m really enjoying the role I’m in now. I feel I still have a lot to learn and there are lots of opportunities to develop my skills. In the future, I may decide to take a postgraduate degree, but I’m happy right now to see what opportunities come my way. 

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