Gary Chan

The University has a great reputation. I had an interest in Biology and Geography, particularly in natural processes. The degree which I enrolled in allowed me to get more exposure to this.

The programme had a good variety of subjects in the first couple of years, which allowed me to get a feel for what subjects I enjoyed. I wasn’t 100% sure whether I was more interested in the ecological part of the degree or environmental science part more. In the latter years I was able to develop these skills further.

I have good memories of the various field trips we had each year during my time on the degree, which allowed me to gain first-hand experience in the field, whilst it being a great experience to get to know my course mates and university staff. I particularly enjoyed our trip to Jamaica.

Learn more about our field trips

My advice would be to enjoy yourself and make the most of getting to know your course mates and university staff. Despite it being challenging, it was worthwhile in the end, and I don’t think I would have managed to get through it all successfully, without good course friends who were all on the same boat!

Fantastic experience, challenging but rewarding.

Since completing my degree, I knew I wanted to start a career in environmental consultancy. I went on to complete a masters degree in sustainability and consultancy in England. Following this I managed to secure jobs within various engineering and consultancy firms, working within various sectors such as flood risk, highways, rail, ports and much more.

• Environmental coordination of environmental teams
• Project management
• Building client relationships

After my masters, I got a job within 6 months of graduating. I’ve worked within the industry (environmental consultancy) for 8 years since.

My current role requires me to have a good general understanding of various environmental subjects such as ecology, air quality, water, flood risk etc. Although I do not specialise in these areas, the degree has helped me get a good baseline under each of these subject areas. My role requires me to represent the environment team for various interfaces.

Technical skills. I work primarily in environmental impact assessment, technical understanding of environmental processes, data collection etc which I learned from my degree, and I apply these skills to my current role.

Consultancy work requires good project management to deliver work for clients. Often the work can be fast paced and is required to be completed within short timescales.

Aim to get work experience outside of general university studies. Join professional organisations such as IEMA, CIEEM, CIWEM or IES.