We are looking back on some of our MSc graduates who have excelled in scientific research, ecology and conservation around the world since studying with us.
Today we meet Catherine who is set to graduate from MSc Conservation Science & Policy in 2021 and is soon beginning a new job at Plymouth Marine Laboratory.
Hi Catherine! We are pleased you are soon to be starting a job role with Plymouth Marine Laboratory, please tell us more about it!
I am hoping to start this role at PML with one my Dissertation supervisors before the end of April … I’ll be applying the coding and spatial analysis skills that I gained during my MSc course to numerous projects PML has up and running at the moment.
How do you think your MSc help prepare you for your next steps?
Hands down I gained a lot of analytical skills that are invaluable, but one of the most memorable experiences was being a founding member of the Women in Conservation group and holding our first symposium. I hope that it will continue in the future to inspire diversity, women in STEM and POC’s in science.
Why don’t you give us a bit of background about what made you choose to study your MSc with us at the University of Exeter Cornwall Campus?
The University of Exeter really impressed me as an institution that cares about what is best for their students. When I was applying, Professor Godley took the time and interest to ask about my personal goals and looked at the experience I had to steer me towards the right programme. I find the combination of having university staff who are concerned not only about your academic achievements but also about your overall well-being is something unique about the University of Exeter.
What are your highlights from studying your MSc?
The Kenya Policy Field course was amazing, but the highlight for me was being a part of a local school’s environmental project where we planted acacia trees alongside school children. We also got to sit down with a group of Maasai to talk about the impact of climate change on their livelihood which is dependent on tourism and agriculture. Reading about these issues is one thing, but actually getting first-hand accounts completely changes how you appreciate, understand and analyse a situation.
What did you most enjoy about studying at the University of Exeter, Cornwall Campus?
Cornwall is a stunning place to live, and as a student, I was able to experience a lot of it outside of class thanks to events organised by the Students’ Union and its societies. I particularly enjoyed going marine mammal watching around the Cornish coast and seeing newborn grey seal pups, minke whales, harbour porpoises and a host of sea birds.
My absolute favourite thing to do was to go on nature walks with friends I made on the course. One of our go to spots was the walled garden on campus, which literally reminded me of a place right out of the Secret Garden.
Why did you choose a career in Conservation Science and Policy … and do you have any advice for students looking to pursue a similar career?
I’m passionate about marine conservation and I want the work that I do to promote evidence-informed policy and legislation that supports sustainable environmental management. I’d tell them to make sure to ask questions. Go to the lecture series put on by the University to find out about research being conducted within and outside of the University of Exeter community. There are a lot of opportunities on and off campus, but you have to be curious to make the most of it.
Finally, do you have any plans for the future?
I hope to keep on learning as I continue in academia by pursuing a PhD.
Thank you Catherine, and Good Luck for your new job!
If you want to read more profiles from MSc Conservation Science & Policy graduates follow this link or explore our Graduate in Focus homepage to learn more about the degree programmes we have on offer!