Student profiles
Jessica Hart
BSc Environmental Science
Jessica Hart is from Liverpool where she studied for A Levels in Geography, Biology and Chemistry. She is now studying towards an MSc in Pollution and Environmental Control at the University of Manchester.
I chose to study Environmental Science because I enjoyed all of my A Levels and this course allowed me to combine the best aspects of them all. I feel the broad scope of this degree is one of its main advantages as it gives you a general understanding of the key issues involved and the interdisciplinary nature of studying the environment. The first year consists of studying a wide range of topics which reflects the varied A Level subjects studied by all students on the course, in order to increase everybody’s knowledge of the main subject areas. The different course units to choose from in the second year allow you to focus on the areas that are of most interest to you and help to guide you towards the area that you will specialise in through the final year project.
The variety of teaching methods in the form of lectures, practical classes, seminars and fieldtrips enhanced my engagement with the topics being introduced. I found it much easier to understand difficult concepts through practical classes than just listening in a lecture. Hands-on practical experience is invaluable and many of the fieldtrips I took part in have given me memories that will last a lifetime!
Studying in SEAES is an environment that equips you with all the resources that you will need to complete your studies successfully. This includes computer clusters, an undergraduate resource room as well as the friendly staff who are always on hand to deal with any problems that arise.
I thoroughly enjoyed my time studying in Manchester which is the main reason why I decided to undertake my postgraduate study here. I love the city because of its diversity which means I’m never short of things to fill my time with, both on and off campus.
In order to make the most of your time at university you have to seize all opportunities that come your way. I feel living in University halls of residence in your first year is a great place to start. This experience will introduce you to new people and places within the city and make the transition from home to university life just that little bit easier.