Crawford Paris

What did you do after you graduated? I graduated in June 2016 with a BSc (Hons) in Marine and Coastal Resources Management. Having enjoyed my time studying within the School of Geosciences, I was eager to continue developing my academic experience within the University, and in August 2016 I enrolled in the Environmental Partnership Management Masters programme. Shortly after completing this, I worked briefly with the University of Edinburgh as a Research Associate and latterly as a consultant for the Clyde Marine Planning Partnership. I now manage an environmental campaign with East Grampian Coastal Partnership called ‘Turning the Plastic Tide’.

What did you enjoy about your Geography degree? The degree offered a great variety of courses and subjects to choose from. My interests mainly related to marine management and conservation, but I also enjoyed exploring other topics the degree had to offer and learning new skills, such as the use of GIS tools. Getting the opportunity to work outside the classroom during field trips was also a major bonus, whether it was a local trip up the coast to Forvie National Nature Reserve, or a week-long excursion to Cornwall.

How did your Geography degree from Aberdeen University help you in your career? In my experience, the degree has been hugely influential in helping me get to where I am as a professional. While working on my dissertation I found staff to be supportive in helping establish important connections in my chosen field of research, which subsequently opened the door to job opportunities after my time in academia. I currently work in a related field in and around Aberdeen and enjoy keeping in contact with university staff and those initial connections made during my undergraduate degree.