Class of 2001
Geography/Physical Education
IF YOU STUDIED YOUR UNDERGRADUATE PROGRAMME AT YORK ST JOHN UNIVERSITY OR FOUNDER COLLEGES, DID YOU GO ON TO POSTGRADUATE STUDY?
No
JOB:
Team Leader – Environment Agency
WHY HAVE YOU CHOSEN THIS PHOTO AS YOUR YSJ SNAPSHOT?
I’d have to do some digging to find some photos from my time at YSJ – it was 25 years ago. Until I find a photo from York, I thought I’d use a photo from the Southern Alps in New Zealand. I love spending time in the hills and don’t get out enough these days – with a young family I’m hoping to start getting out on some longer walks and hopefully we can get into the mountains soon.
WHAT ARE YOUR FONDEST MEMORIES OF YORK ST JOHN UNIVERSITY?
I have some good memories from my time living and studying at Croft Campus, York. I made some good friends which I don’t keep in touch with enough but it’s always good to catch up when we have chance. Most of my personal and work experience since leaving YSJ relates back to my studies in Geography and Physical Education.
WHY DID YOU CHOOSE YORK ST JOHN UNIVERSITY OR FOUNDER COLLEGES?
I’m from Wiltshire originally (I love the Wiltshire countryside), but the prospect of studying in York with all the history was attractive. It was a long time ago but the course seemed to be a good fit for my interests and aspirations.
WHAT HAVE YOU BEEN DOING SINCE COMPLETING YOUR STUDIES?
My first job after University was in Land Survey at the major London Airports. Following that I worked at an Outdoor Activity Centre in the South Pennines. I spent 5 years working as a Glacier Guide in New Zealand & Norway and for the last 10+ Years I have worked for the Environment Agency in Environment Management and most recently in Flood and Coastal Risk Management for Thames Tidal Defences.
WHY DID YOU CHOOSE YOUR SPECIFIC COURSE?
I studied Maths, Geography and Sports Science at A-Level. I think I’d decided I didn’t want to continue with Maths. From memory YSJ seemed to offer a good combination of Geography and Physical Education which suited me at the time.
WHAT WERE THE BEST FEATURES OF YOUR COURSE?
Everything! Good location, good Lecturers, good students. I remember being out on the North York Moors as part of the Geography course and kayaking on the North Sea with PE.
WHAT ONE PIECE OF ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO A CURRENT STUDENT, OR ONE ABOUT TO GRADUATE?
Opportunities are everywhere – recognise and grab them where you can!
Overcome fear and embrace change – actively seek chances for personal development and growth.
Build your network, look to acquire a range of experience, relevant to your interests.