Why did you choose that particular degree course?

I chose this course because of its broad interdisciplinary scope. I was (and still am) passionate about sustainability, and wanted to learn more about this topic. At this time, very few Universities offered sustainability as an Undergraduate course - especially if you hadn't studied geography at A Level. Warwick's course was exciting and new, so I was incredibly happy to get accepted onto the course.

Tell us about your employer

I work in the Energy and Sustainability Team at the University of Warwick. Our team is based in Estates and is mainly operational, with a focus on environmental sustainability. The key areas we work on are behaviour change/engagement, carbon reporting, energy and utilities monitoring, ecology & biodiversity, circular economy and sustainable procurement. We work closely with staff and students across the University, as well as external groups such as Warwickshire Wildlife Trust.

What was the position you were recruited for. Please briefly outline the position you were recruited to within your organisation and summarise the business needs and role you fulfil

Initially I began working as a Sustainability Assistant, where my focus was on ecology and biodiversity. I spent my time conducting species surveys (e.g. hedgehogs, moths, small mammals), designing communications and organising events to promote biodiversity on campus.

After 10 months in this role, I progressed into the Sustainability Co-ordinator position. This role is more broad and focuses on engagement and behaviour change across campus. For example, I have helped develop the Climate Literacy Training course which aims to educate staff and students on climate change and what they can do to reduce their environmental impact.

What attracted you to this position?

After studying my undergraduate degree at the University, and having lots of ideas about how it could be more sustainable, I was really keen to return and see what was possible.

When I was younger, I always wanted to have a job that I cared about and that I looked forward to each day. This position definitely fulfils that - the work is highly varied and I get to collaborate with a lot of brilliant people across the University.

What are the key skills you learnt at Warwick that have helped you with your career to date?

1. Time management - this role requires you to be working on a large variety of projects at any one time - so ensuring you meet the deadlines and split your time accordingly is key.
2. Communication - this role requires a huge level of communication, with staff/students, external groups and your team. Clear communication is key to ensure everyone is on the same page.

What top tips would you give to students looking for a career in your market sector?

My top tip would be to gain experience - whether this is an internship, part time role or volunteering. Not only is this good for your CV, but it is also useful when going for interviews as you can draw on this experience to explain why you would be good at the role you are interviewing for.

LinkedIn is a brilliant way to look for jobs related to sustainability - I would encourage you to connect with a variety of people from different sustainability organisations as they often post current opportunities which you can get involved with - be it internships or full time roles. Another useful site is Environment Job which only shows sustainability roles - so is a great way to search for a new opportunity.

What do you know now that you wish you had known when you were applying for jobs?

Don’t be disheartened if you don’t get the role! Even if you are unsuccessful in an interview, this is brilliant experience and will make you more confident when going into your next interview.