Katy Dickson
MLE Rural Surveying
Class of 2009
Katy graduated with a Master of Land Economy (Rural Surveying) in 2009 and is now Head of Policy at Scottish Land & Estates. She told us how studying at the University of Aberdeen helped her in her career.
What do you do now and what does your role involve?
I am currently Head of Policy at Scottish Land & Estates, a membership organisation representing Scottish rural landowners and businesses. I manage a team of policy advisers to represent our members to the Scottish Government and other stakeholders and to provide guidance to the membership, helping them manage their rural businesses successfully.
Why did you choose to study at the University of Aberdeen?
As the only Scottish RICS accredited postgraduate course at the time, Aberdeen was the natural choice. The MLE provided a good overview of the issues I would come across as a rural surveyor. It provided me with the first step on the journey to my career as a chartered rural surveyor which led to my move into rural policy.
How did your degree contribute to you getting to where you are now?
The people I met on the MLE course have become not only my close friends but also a vital network of professionals. 10 years on and many of us are still regularly in touch both socially and for work-related advice. While the modules were interesting and informative, it was these relationships which have been the real benefit of the course.
What advice would you give to current students at the University?
My advice to current students would be to make the most of your time as a student, to gain as much experience as possible and meet people working in a variety of fields. Aberdeen is also a fun place to study - make the most of that too!