Alumni Profiles 

“I was a University of Gloucestershire student 1999-2002 and completed my BSc (Hons) Geography with Film Studies degree. This meant that I divided my time between Francis Close Hall (FCH) and Pittville campus which I enjoyed, as each campus has its own individual character making them great places to studying at.

“I was a member of Student Community Action (SCA) which was great fun, liaising with all members of the community - whether Tea Dances, house refurbishments or garden improvement. One volunteering job that I found very rewarding was transforming an elderly lady’s garden from chaos to calm!
 
“Since graduating, I have worked and volunteered for the Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society (CPAWS) in Vancouver, Canada. The great thing about being based in Vancouver was that I could travel around to see the Rocky Mountains, Vancouver Island and other wonderful places. I then travelled and worked in Australia and New Zealand in particular volunteering for Conservation Volunteers Australia (CVA) whilst living in Melbourne.

“When I returned from my travels I took on an office job to save up more money to go travelling again, but I always volunteered every week with the British Trust Conservation Volunteers (BTCV).

“I am currently in the final stages of completing a BTEC National Diploma in Countryside Management at Capel Manor College in Enfield. Even though my course is fulltime I still manage to fit in regular volunteering with Osterley Park (part of National Trust) and paid worked at the Richmond Theatre as an Usher.

“My ambition is to emigrate to Australia to become a Ranger...this dream is being worked on as I begin the application process....”

" My Hints and tips for current students are:

• The most important thing to do is volunteer regularly - especially if want an environment based career. It looks good on your CV and is a great way to benefit from free training and contacts in the field. Volunteering also proves to the interviewer that you are committed to a certain career path and motivated to do well.

• In addition to good qualifications I have found that employers are also interested in your hobbies so make sure you have some."
 
“Some of my friends still live in Cheltenham so I try to come over at least once a year to see them and take a trip down memory lane whilst visiting Gloucester and Tewkesbury.”