My SHU Journey:

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Hi, I’m Alfie a final year BSc in Geography student at Sheffield Hallam University.  

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My favourite things about the BA/BSc Geography course

Throughout my time at SHU, I have always enjoyed field trips, especially those that relate to the environment and ways in which human beings interact with it. In relation again to environmental science, I studied water and soil samples from varying areas of land use for levels of pollutants in first and second year, grateful for the experience and knowledge gained.

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Recently, in my final few modules I have been on audits of Sheffield’s green and blue infrastructure, specifically studying the ‘Grey to Green scheme’. I am someone who likes to see case studies of how theory has been implemented, and these course opportunities have been thought-provoking to me. Since undertaking these audits, I have also reached out to my new colleagues to discuss some BWB projects in this area of interest.

 

I completed work experience with two professional companies, Delta Simons and Peacock & Smith and have recently attended the ‘Forum for Tomorrow’ Conference for ‘Creating Sustainable & Healthy Cities’. These are great opportunities to put yourself in the shop window, you really have nothing to lose. You will also gain first hand experience and insight into how consultancy businesses operate.

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Dissertation

I studied the physical geography / environmental science option for my dissertation, as I felt this was most relevant to my career ambitions. I studied the impact of land use on microplastic concentrations in the Meers Brook, a tributary of the River Sheaf. I enjoyed the opportunity to undertake my own data collection process in the field, which then spearheaded my research throughout the project, of an environmental issue that is not given enough attention.

 

Graduate job success

​While completing my final year I have  acquired a graduate position as an Environmental Consultant at BWB Consulting Ltd after a typical recruitment process, including a graduate recruitment day and second interview. 

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BWB is a multi-disciplinary organisation, working in a wide variety of markets. In my role, I will spend 2 years moving round departments including acoustics, air quality, archaeology and heritage, climate solutions, ecology and BNG, environmental due diligence, EIA, flood risk, LIA, and transport planning.

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Advice to other students

My advice to anyone wanting to take a similar route to me is to be a good people person, take advantage of opportunities like field days, lecturers’ expertise, LinkedIn and work experience opportunities. At the end of the day, to be a consultant, you have to consult with people. Therefore, the opportunities to build connections and have a greater knowledge of your industry really is priceless.