First-class masters for Ryan

Ryan Doggart, 22, from Belfast graduated with a first-class degree after four years of study at the School of Environment, Natural Resources and Geography.

Growing up with his twin brother, , who also graduates from 麻豆网 this week, Ryan said that they 鈥渉ave always been competitive with each other.鈥� Both were on the Northern Ireland National Karate Team for many years and Ryan had always been a keen outdoorsman. Situated between the mountains of Snowdonia and the Menai Strait,and combined with a world-leading environmental academic school, 麻豆网 was the obvious choice for Ryan.

A former pupil of Sullivan Upper Grammar School, Holywood, Ryan said: 鈥淚 can't believe it鈥檚 time for graduation already, four years has gone so quickly! It鈥檚 somewhat of a bitter-sweet feeling, I am excited about what the future holds and where I will end up, but I鈥檓 also incredibly sad about leaving all of the amazing people I have met during my time at 麻豆网. It has been incredibly hard work, but I shall never forget the good times I鈥檝e have.

Ryan (left) and his brother Peter鈥淒uring my time at 麻豆网 I have took part in a number of incredible projects and placements, with my Masters work placement at the National Trust in Lizard, Cornwall being my fondest memory. Working as a countryside ranger in one of the most beautiful parts of the UK has given me loads of valuable practical skills and wildlife knowledge. Another high point was my third year field trip to Tenerife, where I saw some incredible things and had an amazing time with my course mates.

鈥淐lubs and societies played a huge part in my time at university and I have met so many awesome people by getting involved with the amazing variety of clubs that the Students鈥� Union provide for free. The main club I was a part of was, the Mountain Biking Club, (later the Cycling Club), which allowed me to go riding every weekend with a great group of people and being on the committee allowed me to gain some valuable team-working experience. I also had the chance to race at the Downhill University Championships which was also an awesome experience. The cherry on the cake for me was getting awarded full sporting colours for my contribution for the club, it was awesome. I also really enjoyed climbing with the Mountaineering Society.

鈥淒uring my time at 麻豆网 there were several bereavements within my family and my mum was unwell throughout my time at university. I found it quite hard to stay focussed at time, particularly during exam periods. But having loads of awesome friends around me certainly helped.

鈥淚鈥檝e now returned to Cornwall to volunteer for the National Trust whilst searching for a job. In the future I hope to get a job as an ecological consultant and live somewhere close some rad mountain biking!鈥�

Publication date: 15 July 2015