Meet the alumni

What made you want to study geosciences at Imperial College?

For starters Imperial College is consistently ranked amongst the top universities in the world, so I looked in to the course and discovered that Geology here offers so much more than just a high quality degree. I could tell from my open day that the department offers caring staff, a very close-knit student body, plenty of opportunities to travel and many exclusive clubs & societies. I have benefitted from all of these during my time here.

 What made you want to study geosciences? 

I entered the application process rather uncertain about an exact degree subject, but I knew I enjoyed all of the sciences. Geology requires an application to some extent of all of the sciences and maths, and after discovering this I realised I had also previously enjoyed my limited previous experience of Geology in education (fossils, physical geography, inorganic chemistry etc.). Reading further in to the subject I decided to take the plunge, and I’ve been delighted with that decision ever since.

 What are the highlights of your studies so far?  

The list is long. 1^st year itself was hugely exciting being based in South Kensington: meeting new friends, experiencing all London has to offer for the first time and enjoying the social traditions of the RSM. In 2^nd year I captained the RSM football team through a fun and successful season, learning lots from one of the many positions of responsibility the RSM has available.

Two months of independent mapping in the South of France at the end of this 2^nd year was also a fantastic time. The major highlight for me, however, is my year abroad to University of California, Los Angeles in 3^rd year. Between studies I spent weekends in Las Vegas, San Diego, San Francisco, Yosemite National Park, Grand Canyon and Yellowstone to name only some, whilst unique study opportunities at UCLA took me to NASA space conferences and camping trips in Death Valley for independent research. It has all been a blast that is passing by all too quickly!

 What is your favourite aspect of life in the RSM and Imperial?

The unique sense of community in the RSM makes it a fantastic place to study. The high contact hours of the Geology degree naturally produces a strong rapport between professors and students, and an active social calendar makes it very easy to settle in and make friends with fellow students. Old traditions such as the De La Beche Society and the annual Bottle Match against Camborne School of Mines give us all something to celebrate together.

 What are you thinking of doing when you finish?

A sensitive question at the moment – I’m not sure! The options are broad but I want to continue the practice of Geology in my job, rather than switching paths and pursuing a career in the city. I have had lots of experience in Remote Sensing and GIS with my MSci project as well as independent research at UCLA, so I’m looking to apply for jobs that put these skills to good use.

 What advice would you give to a potential student applicant about London, and Imperial?

If you are worried that London is large and intimidating as many people often are, go and have a visit of the RSM on an open-day and see if you feel more at home with our friendly faces.  Also, London is expensive but manageable – there are many part-time job opportunities available with enough searching. I work as casual bar staff at Imperial College Union and that helps me with the costs (they are often hiring if you are interested!).

Why did you chose to study a Year Abroad?

I never applied to university for the year abroad, and had never really considered it before I accidentally entered the year abroad meeting in 2^nd year! I realised in this meeting that although its great to go through the motions in the RSM for a 3^rd year straight, I would look back far more fondly on a completely different year on the other side of the world. I made my mind up immediately on this wisdom and although it’s a scary choice, I certainly made the correct one.

 Where did you chose to go mapping? 

I spent 7 weeks in the sunny South of France at the end of 2^nd year, in a remote region of the Pyrenees called Lers. As the only GCSE French taker in my group of 8, I took on the unexpected responsibility of dodgy translator, which brought with it many awkward interactions, but also significant improvements in my French! Hiking in the mountains, collecting the data and bringing it all together in a coherent project was immensely satisfying.

What made you want to study geosciences at Imperial College?

I chose to study at geosciences at Imperial College because of the clear enthusiasm of students and staff for their subject of study.  It was clear visiting the department that it was a really positive learning environment that I could picture myself in.  The strong links between research and teaching, as well as the opportunities for Undergraduate students to become involved in research from an early stage were key factors for me.

 What made you want to study geosciences?

I was always interested in the fundamentals of how the world works, so was very drawn to pure maths and science, but I wanted to acquire a skill set that would help me solve global problems in the future in a practical way, so geoscience was perfect. 

 What are the highlights of your studies so far?  

This summer I spent 12 days in the Gulf of Corinth, Greece, on fieldwork for my final year MSci Project.  This trip included battling through vegetation and steeps sloped to explore river valleys and hill tops to acquire quantitative data. I was able to apply everything I have learnt in the last 3 years to real research, and received one-to-one teaching from my supervisors: an unparalleled learning experience.

 What is your favourite aspect of life in the RSM and Imperial?

I learn something new every day that I didn't expect to learn: outside normal lectures there are always scientific talks to go to, people discussing their work, opportunities to network and find out about potential future careers.  You never know who you are going to meet, or speak to, or be inspired by.  And it is through this constant exposure to new ideas and prospects that I have been able to make really informed decisions about what I want to achieve. 

What are you thinking of doing when you finish?

When I graduate from the RSM I plan to stay in academia.  I would like to do a PhD abroad, making use of all the scientific and soft skills I have gained in the RSM.  My dream at the moment is to become a research scientist and conduct my own fieldwork. 

 What advice would you give to a potential student applicant about London, and Imperial?

Don't be daunted by the idea of living in London, it's just like a lot of small villages with their own personalities packed together, and you'll soon feel at home here. You have to be prepared to work very hard at Imperial, but working hard on a subject you really enjoy will be one of the most rewarding experience of your life.

What made you want to take part in the undergraduate research opportunities programme?

I wanted to get a taste of what it is actually like to work in research and to see if I would enjoy it.  I wanted to gain experience in research because I couldn't imagine anything more exciting than working on a problem no-one had ever solved, or exploring an idea no-one had thought about before.

What work experience did you apply for and how has it helped you? 

This summer I took part in a U.S. State Department exchange program for European student leaders where I studies global environmental issues for 5 weeks hosted at the University of Oregon.  It has helped me realise the importance of international co-operation and the responsibilities of geoscientists in influencing the development of our rapidly changing world. 

What made you want to study geosciences at Imperial College?

As a world-renowned department among the top in global subject rankings, the Earth Science & Engineering Department at Imperial was naturally attractive to me, someone in search for a place to further my interest in geosciences.  More crucial, however, is the research excellence the department (and all other departments at Imperial) achieve, where subject matters can be connected to global movement. I believe that in an environment surrounded by ongoing research, there is lots of exposure to the latest development in the discipline, chances to speak to top scientists and of course research and career opportunities.

What made you want to study geosciences?

Since childhood I've been fascinated by the beauty of landscapes. My mind is full of questions like how do these landforms occur?  Questions which the study of geoscience tackle through scientific study of the geological record. On the other hand, geoscience is most related to my lifelong concern – sustainable development of human society. Modern society is constantly struggling in complex conflicts between aspects such as increasing demand for resources from underground, energy security and disturbance to environment. Studying geoscience is a key step towards tackling these issues. Geoscientists try to understand the natural systems of the Earth (especially how it looks like underground), trying to offer scientific solutions to the conflicts.

What are the highlights of your studies so far?  

Fieldwork has definitely been the highlight of my course so far. Not particularly experienced in outdoor activities, at first I didn’t really enjoy fieldwork, as it’s daunting and I was confused by looking at rocks in the field. Going through the guided fieldtrips in First and Second Years, I got trained in working in outdoor environments, and in addition, I underwent a step-by-step process building up my confidence in observing and interpreting the geological record until I could finally formulate geological history from my own gathered evidence.

I began to enjoy exploring rugged terrains where no one dares to visit except for geologists. Fieldwork also trained me a more vigorous working spirit and stronger physique.

What is your favourite aspect of life in the RSM and Imperial?

RSM is a community of passionate people highly dedicated to their disciplines, which really helps enhance my interest in geoscience. It’s common for peers to share views on subject matters with each other. Lecturers will kindly offer excellent feedback on coursework and practical advice for any career decisions.

Imperial is filled with a ‘work hard, play hard’ atmosphere. Imperial students definitely study very hard, but at the same time they’re devoted to a lot of other interests too. There’re a lot of clubs and societies to join, catering for interests from general to the most exotic ones. It’s in the society’s activities where I meet diverse group of people with enthusiasm and open minds.

What are you thinking of doing when you finish?

I’m still deciding on my career pathway, but doing a PhD in Environmental and Engineering Geology seems a likely option. This branch of geoscience deals with critical works such as locating aquifers and pollution management. It’s a meaningful and exciting thing to conduct my own study to resolve challenging issues and develop new technologies for the society. On the other hand, I’m open to opportunities in the industry, where I can make contributions to society in other ways.

What advice would you give to a potential student applicant about London, and Imperial?

London is a vibrant and splendid cosmopolitan (I assume everyone knows that!) where you can enjoy an unforgettable university life. It’s also a place where you can pursue your own desirable lifestyle. Many will be reluctant to study in London with its seemingly high cost of living. In fact, with handy budgeting and flexible part-time job opportunities, financing life in London is not a common concern.

To study at Imperial, you need to be well-prepared to run-around-the-clock coursework and study schedules. It’s definitely hard work yet rewarding when you realise how much you would have learned. Make sure you enjoy what you’re studying!

Where did you chose to go mapping?

I conducted my mapping project in St. Geniez in SE France, on the fringe of French Alps. At the hinterland-foreland boundary, the mapping area encompasses Mesozoic carbonates in the Alpine External Fold and Thrust Belt and a foreland basin receiving syn-tectonic Tertiary clastics deposition.

As a newly introduced mapping area, there’s no previous experience of mapping the area for reference. Apart from planning logistics and accommodation, we work pretty much like real geologists, exploring an unfamiliar terrain and identifying new rock types with minimal guidance. Throughout the 6 weeks of mapping I had long periods of confusion and frustration when fieldwork became very daunting and the geology became very difficult to interpret. It’s not until towards the end that my findings started to make sense and I could make some solid interpretations. This is definitely a highly rewarding training that I will never forget.

What made you want to study geosciences at Imperial College?

Immediately after the Earth Science open day I knew I wanted to study here. The staff were incredible to talk to – I’d been to a talk about the Curiosity rover on Mars from someone called Sanjeev Gupta. Little did I know that just a few years down the line I would be sat in his lecture course. And the students were exactly the kind of people I wanted to be around – they were excited about their subject and happy to share their stories.

 What made you want to study geosciences?

I stumbled across Geophysics almost by accident when I was researching university courses, but it seemed like the perfect combination of my interests and my A-Level subjects – Geography, Maths and Physics. I really enjoyed sciences at school but I wanted to know how I could apply some of those scientific theories to something relevant. And what’s more relevant than understanding the Earth beneath your feet?

 What are the highlights of your studies so far?  

Fieldwork is one of the best parts of the degree scheme. It’s one of the most rewarding things to be in the field and to see for yourself a fault or a fold style that you learnt about in a lecture theatre, but in a rock face in front of you, and understanding how it came to be there.

What is your favourite aspect of life in the RSM and Imperial?

Even amongst a full timetable of lectures and deadlines, there is a huge community of students in the RSM working to run a packed calendar of extra-curricular events. Be that joining the netball club and playing matches, or going to a talk after lectures run by the Geophysics Society from an expert in geomagnetism. And there’s chance for you to get involved by running in an election to be a committee member and have your stamp on how a club runs.

 What are you thinking of doing when you finish?

Now I’m in my final year the current plan is to start submitting PhD applications. In my undergraduate courses I have been able to undertake a few research projects lasting up to 4-6 months. They’ve given me a real taste for research and I love the satisfaction of starting with a problem and setting down to work out how you can tackle it, and what might you discover on the way.

 What advice would you give to a potential student applicant about London, and Imperial?

Studying in London isn’t perhaps typical of the average university experience on a campus say – but you do get so many more opportunities to experience the capital. Don’t be immediately put off by the cost of living, as there is a huge amount of support available from the college, to ensure you can get as involved in university life as possible. The museums, the Royal Parks, the Royal Albert Hall and so much more is right here on your doorstep in South Kensington.

What made you take part in a NERC Doctoral Training Programme Research Experience Placement? 

I wanted to take part in a research project at the end of my second year to get a flavour of what sort of work I might be taking on in future years and one of my lecturers recommended the NERC DTP.  I was working with a Professor and a PhD student to script some of the programmes that were needed for his PhD, and so my work felt really valued and relevant. It also acts as a great bridge between second year and the third year dissertation project.

What work experience did you apply for and how has it helped you? 

I applied for lots of industry internships for the summer after third year, given I had already done a research placement. I spent 10 weeks with Schlumberger working on Rock Physics Modelling and plug-in software development for Petrel. Not only was my placement itself really valuable, to see how my skills I’ve gained from my degree are applicable in the industry, but the application and interview process is also a great practice for when it comes to graduate job applications. 

What made you want to study geosciences at Imperial Collage?

When I came to Imperial for my interview, I fell in love with the idea of studying Geophysics at Imperial. I remember seeing all the fieldwork posters, especially the ones for the Morocco Geophysics Fieldtrip (now Cyrprus), and wanting to be a part of the RSM. No other university has as many fieldtrips so this made it the most attractive university for me.

What made you want to study geosciences?

After studying geohazard management at high school, I decided I wanted to study geosciences at university. I also loved applied maths and physics so decided to study Geophysics.

What are the highlights of your studies so far?  

The fieldtrips have been the highlight of my studies so far with riding camels in Morocco ranking as my favourite university experience. It was great to apply the geophysics we had learnt in the field as well. I also enjoyed the 1^st year fieldtrip to Spain.

What is your favourite aspect of life in the RSM and Imperial?

The RSM is a very close knit community which is great and I have really enjoyed playing for RAM hockey in the infamous Bottle Match while at Imperial.

What are you thinking of doing when you finish?

I am hoping to do a PhD.

What advice would you give to a potential student applicant about London, and Imperial?

Although London is expensive, it is an amazing city and totally worth saving up for. The sport clubs at Imperial are pretty cheap and I would definitely recommend trying something you have never done before when you come to uni. Imperial can be hard work but as long as you manage your time well there is plenty of time outside studying to fully embrace student life – just enjoy your time here and make the most of the experience.

What made you want to take part in the undergraduate research opportunities programme?

I took part in a UROP because I wanted to see what research would be like and prepare myself for the MSci project in 4^th year. I spent 8 weeks modelling tsunami wave inundation on the British coast and the other 2 weeks of that summer at an internship with an oil exploration company.  This made me realise that I would rather do research than work in industry.

Why did you chose to go to MIT over summer to complete a research project? 

I chose to go to MIT this summer as the nature of the project really interested me. I also wanted to spend the summer in Boston and had a fantastic time out at MIT. I would 100% encourage anyone who is given the chance to go to MIT to take the opportunity. 

What made you want to study geosciences at Imperial College?

The department of Earth Science and Engineering at Imperial College is one of the leading centres of research for geoscience in the world, in addition to studying at one of the best universities. The close connection with employers and opportunities for research means you are continually supported throughout your degree whichever career path you choose to take, reflected by the range of modules offered.

What made you want to study geosciences?

I have always been fascinated by geology, ever since fossil hunting along the Jurassic Coast as a toddler (cliché I know). It progressed me to study Geology at A-level where I learnt the true diversity of the subject. The opportunity to travel the world whilst studying a subject that affects lives both in some of the wealthiest to some of the world’s poorest communities means you can really make an impact through improving solutions to natural hazard disasters to exploring unconventional resources of oil and natural gas.

What are the highlights of your studies so far?

The diversity of modules studied throughout the degree from volcanology to palaeontology emphasises how applicable the geosciences are to the modern world. The opportunity to undertake fieldwork in places such as Southern Spain and NW Scotland takes you to some amazing geological landscapes whilst collaborating with peers you may have not had the chance to speak to yet. You will make life-long friends that will stick with you through the hail and rain!

What is your favourite aspect of life in the RSM and Imperial?

The integrated and friendly atmosphere of the Royal School of Mines certainly adds to the educational experience. There are so many opportunities to speak to some of the world’s leading researchers beyond lectures to learn more about the applicability of their field of study. This quality also makes for the RSM’s amazing social scene; from multiple formal dinners, bar nights and the infamous Bottle Match, every student is included.

What are you thinking of doing when you finish?

Following completion of my degree, I am aiming to enter the Engineering or Hydrocarbon industries as a geologist to apply the theoretical concepts into current global problems affecting global infrastructure and natural hazards to the long-term sustainability of the energy sector.

What advice would you give to a potential student applicant about London, and Imperial?

When applying to university, I knew many people who were unsure about the costs of London living and perhaps its overwhelming status as an international city. However, I have found these to be just some of its benefits. London is buzzing with students and hence deals can be found everywhere, from discounted theatre tickets and comedy clubs (for 1£) to leafy strolls in its amazing Royal Parks with Imperial situated at the heart of this social scene with more clubs and societies than any other UK university. I really would emphasise to be productive; go out and try new things!

What made you want to take part in the undergraduate research opportunities programme?

The experience was a fantastic opportunity to understand the processes required for scientific research. I undertook a Minerals Processing UROP project involving the froth flotation of a silica-magnetite system to improve efficiencies of activator and depressant dosages with an aim to be up-scaled to industry. The project provided greater experience of invaluable laboratory work whilst expanding my knowledge and interest in an area beyond the lecture course.

Where did you chose to go mapping?

I completed my mapping project in El Pont de Suert in the South Central Spanish Pyrenees. Previous fieldwork in the foreland basin of this fold thrust belt inspired me to understand further the interaction between lithology and structure to help deduce a larger tectonic evolution. The area consisted of a variety of lithologies from metamorphic basement to multiple pyroclastic deposits, and famous continental red beds and evaporites.

What work experience did you apply for and how has it helped you?

This summer I undertook an internship at Mott MacDonald in the Dams and Reservoirs division in Cambridge as a geotechnical engineer. I worked on a variety of projects producing cross sections of local reservoirs as well as ground models for regional construction of reservoir storage tanks across the north of England. The experience gave me a greater insight into the application of geology into the extensive and continuously expanding engineering sector. 

What made you want to study geosciences at Imperial College?

Being able to study at one of the world’s leading universities and being part of a friendly and supportive department attracted me to study geosciences at Imperial College. Also, the fact that the department really prioritises fieldwork made me want to study here. Over the course of your degree you get to travel to some amazing places and see some remarkable geology, making geosciences at Imperial quite unique.

What made you want to study geosciences?

I have always loved being outdoors and travelling, and I enjoyed science and physical geography at school.  With a geosciences degree I was able to combine my passions. Understanding the geological processes which form some of the world’s most spectacular features has always sparked my interest.

What are the highlights of your studies so far?  

The fieldtrips are definitely the highlight of my studies so far, especially the first year field trip to Southern Spain and the second year field trip to the Pyrenees. I love being able to relate what I learn in the lecture theatre to real life examples, and the fieldtrips really allow you to cement and apply your knowledge. They are also a great opportunity to bond with your course mates and create some lifelong memories.

What is your favourite aspect of life in the RSM and Imperial?

My favourite aspect of life in the RSM is the people and vibrant social events, which there are many of! We are lucky to be situated in such a nice part of London, so my favourite aspect of life at Imperial is being able to study in one of the best cities in the world and explore the surrounding areas. I also love being surrounded by so many like-minded people who are just as motivated and enthusiastic about their studies as you are.

What are you thinking of doing when you finish?

I am not entirely sure what I want to do when I graduate yet, but the oil industry has always fascinated me. I found courses like Earth Resources in the second year really interesting, so I might go into the oil and gas industry or the mining sector. However, the great thing about a geosciences degree is that not only do you study your subject to a high level, but also you gain many transferrable skills that can be applied to lots of other industries. I can relate my degree and the skills I’ve developed to whatever I end up doing in the future.

What advice would you give to a potential student applicant about London, and Imperial?

I would say just go for it! London can seem like quite a daunting place to go to university, but I can’t imagine it any other way and am so glad I ended up here and at Imperial.

What made you want to take part in the undergraduate research opportunities programme?

Over the summer of my second year I decided to take part in the UROP, as I wanted to find out more about the research side of the department and do something productive during my long summer holiday! I helped out with some research being conducted on mars with the curiosity rover and it was such an interesting and rewarding experience. Knowing that you are helping influential people who are at the forefront of some world-leading research is really exciting.

Where did you chose to go mapping? 

I chose to go mapping in Samos, a small island in Greece. It was my first time in Greece and the experience is one I will never forget. Mapping the geology of a beautiful island in amazing weather for six weeks was very enjoyable and I felt a great sense of achievement when I left. 

What made you want to study geosciences at Imperial College?

What made you want to study geosciences at Imperial College?

When I visited the department as a sixth form student, I was instantly made to feel welcome by staff and students alike. I was so impressed by all of the research occurring here, and how varied it is. Imperial is so well respected in the area of geosciences, and it felt like an exciting environment to be in. The fieldtrips on offer during the undergraduate degree were also a particularly appealing to me, with the chance to spend up to 100 days in the field in some incredible geologically important locations.

What made you want to study geosciences?

I knew that I enjoyed studying the natural sciences, and wanted a degree where I could continue to learn about a variety of scientific disciplines. The prospect of being able to be outdoors, and learn about the natural world was so appealing. Geosciences are also incredibly important for many global challenges facing us, and so learning about topics such as climate or natural hazards seemed especially interesting.

What are the highlights of your studies so far?

I’ve had many enjoyable experiences in my two years in the department, with lots of my highlights coming from fieldtrips, where everything you’ve learnt during lectures gets put into practice and becomes so much clearer. Another highlight has been my experience on a summer research project, where I’ve been able to work with palaeontologists at the forefront of their field, and have been given an insight into the specific scientific area I would like to enter in the future.

What is your favourite aspect of life in the RSM and Imperial?

Everyone will tell you that the RSM is a very lively and sociable department, and it’s absolutely true. Because we are one of the smaller departments, it is easy to find support and advice from other students and staff, and everyone is always very friendly and willing to help! Despite people’s interests being so variable, each person is given opportunities to excel in what they are passionate about.

What are you thinking of doing when you finish?

When I finish I would love to study for a PhD in the field of vertebrate palaeontology. I had the opportunity this summer to work in the department and at the Natural History Museum looking at some dinosaur vertebrae. It has definitely been a highlight of my degree so far, and has confirmed to me that I would like to go on to work on problems in this field in the future.

What advice would you give to a potential student applicant about London, and Imperial?

Don’t let the thought of living in London put you off coming to study at Imperial, because I know that initially it can seem quite daunting. Going to university in the capital has made my time at university even better, and is something you won’t regret once you arrive and see how much is going on.

I’d say that you should get out and experience everything you can - you’ll probably find that quite often you’re actually struggling to decide what to do because there’s too much on offer. Although I was initially worried about the expenses of living in London, I’ve found that there are plenty of ways to get around this, especially for students.

What made you want to take part in the undergraduate research opportunities programme?

I have been hoping for some time to continue into academia after completing my undergraduate degree, and so this was the perfect opportunity for me to experience what life as a research scientist is like. It has allowed me to focus on a specific area of work that I am especially interested in, and I have been able to learn skills that will undoubtedly become useful in the future. As a result of the UROP I have had some great opportunities such as attending palaeontology conferences, where I have been able to meet like-minded people and discover more about the research going on in this field.

Where did you chose to go mapping?

I went mapping in Montgenèvre, which is on the border of the French/Italian Alps. When you first start your degree the prospect of mapping independently for 6 weeks seems very daunting, but by the time the trip arrived we felt prepared, with fieldtrips such as the Pyrenees and Scottish Highlands building our experience in the field. The entire process, right through from planning travel and accommodation, to actually mapping the area was so rewarding, and we all felt a huge sense of achievement at the end. The views weren’t too bad either!

What made you want to study geosciences at Imperial College?

I was drawn to the strong academic reputation of both the college and the department. Although being a renowned department worldwide, the ESE has always felt welcoming and homely to me. I also love living in the one of the most exciting cities in the world. 

 What made you want to study geosciences?

My interest in the earth and its environments stems from my love of nature and the outdoors. Having been on expeditions to Norway and Patagonia, I wanted to understand how these landscapes evolved and what they might become in the future. I'm also keen to minimise our environmental impact on the world.

What are the highlights of your studies so far?  

The field trips have been hugely beneficial, they bring together everything that you have learnt so far and though they are tough and exhausting you will have a great time and gain lasting memories. 

What is your favourite aspect of life in the RSM and Imperial?

I enjoy the social aspect of the RSM of which there are many events throughout the calendar. I'm member of the Cross Country and Athletics club and have made great friends through this and trained better than ever before. Other friends that I have feel a strong connection to both sporting and non sporting clubs and this really helps you to enjoy those moments when you aren't studying. 

What are you thinking of doing when you finish?

I'm thinking of completing the BSc and then applying for a MSc in remote sensing. From there I would to work in government or commercial work, and hopefully provide vital support for monitoring our environmental impact in a new and exciting subject. 

What advice would you give to a potential student applicant about London, and Imperial?

Work hard at school and the transition to university won't seem so difficult.