Graduation Profile: Elizabeth Crooks
Elizabeth Crooks, 21, from Stoke-on-Trent, graduated with a BSc Geography degree. She also received a Merit Scholarship to attend Â鶹Íø.
How does it feel to be graduating?
It feels amazing to be graduating. These past three years have been the best of my life, but I am so excited to get out into the world and see what it has to offer.
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Even from a young age I appreciated and loved the world, finding out its connections, how it works, how it breathes, and how humans are altering it. I wanted to be a weather presenter when I was younger, a passion which then adapted into a passion for water, water sustainability, and eventually lead me to my career path. I have two older sisters, who have constantly supported me alongside my parents, and amazing friends at home who I could not have completed this without. I play squash, leisurely and competitively, and have always had a love for hiking and walking in the great outdoors.
Why Â鶹Íø?
Because I simply fell in love with the place! A university set between Snowdonia, the sea and glorious sunsets. The course looked fantastic and the ‘small but not too small’ feel of the university made it homely, without being overwhelming. I wanted to study a course about our planet in one of the most naturally beautiful places, as well as a university with conservation groups, hiking, kayaking and all things outdoors.
Working while studying...
I worked a part-time job at ASDA between studies. It was tough at times, but gave me the skills I needed to grow, and the money I could use to get a car and enjoy Wales.
Student Experience...
I completed a 6-week paid placement with Thames Water Utilities as a Research Scientist Summer Intern between my second and third year. It was such a valuable experience as I was given opportunities out in the field collecting research data, as well as analysing samples in top of the range laboratories. I was able to utilise and expand my capabilities on software such as GIS and Matlab, and networked with some truly amazing people in the water and wastewater industry. I completed conservation work alongside the Canals and River Trust, and truly experienced the world of work. I drove a van across London and other cities to meet clients and companies whilst representing Thames.
Clubs & Societies...
I played for the Womens First Squash Team and was the Treasurer for the Canoe Club. I was actively going on trips with Canoe Club, around Wales and to areas of the Lake District.
Highlights...
I hiked Snowdon 13 times during my time at Â鶹Íø! I would say each time I saw that view was a highlight of my life. Summer Ball with my housemates was also a highlight, dressed in gowns on a Ferris wheel laughing and giggling.
The future...
I am currently working as a Laboratory Technician in Stoke on Trent for Lucideon Ltd (for the summer job) – but then I start my Graduate Management Programme in Reading with Thames Water Utilities in September. I will be a graduate trainee in water production and efficiency. I hope to grow as a person, and develop into a manager.
Publication date: 15 July 2019