Angel Plumb

 Alumni profile 

Course studied: BSc (Hons) Environmental Science
Graduating year: 2022

“Newton Park campus is such a beautiful and positive place to study.”

Angel’s story

Angel studied BSc (Hons) Environmental Science at Bath Spa University, graduating in 2022. During her course, Angel participated in fieldwork monitoring sand lizards in Dorset.

Why I chose Bath Spa

I wanted to study Environmental Science so it was really important for me to choose a university that has a clear appreciation for the natural world alongside goals to be more sustainable.

Bath Spa has been great in allowing me to study about the natural world in a really natural environment, while being surrounded by passionate staff members and other likeminded people who want to be a part of positive planetary change.

"The campus is home to an amazing variety of habitats and species which allows for students to have first-hand experiences and opportunities to observe the natural world and carry out fieldwork on your doorstep."

My experience on the course

Studying Environmental Science at Bath Spa has been invaluable in a multitude of ways. I've had the pleasure of being taught by academics from different disciplines who express their passion for the environment and the natural world through their teaching; I've made lifelong friends who share similar interests and hopes for the future; I've witnessed my scientific and academic writing improve significantly; and I've gained skills in the laboratory and field that I can take forward onto any career path.

Some key skills and experiences I've gained during my degree include:

• the ability to use and understand GIS (geographical information system services)
• experience in Phase 1 Habitat Surveys
• experience in partaking in various wildlife surveys including great crested newts
• the opportunity to participate in a competitive project for the Quarry Life Awards (QLA)
• observing the natural world through wildlife cameras.

My favourite part of studying at Bath Spa has been finding out what I'm most interested in and passionate about, and therefore tailoring the course and my experiences to complement that. As an Environmental Science student, you're predominantly taught by staff from the Biology and Geography departments. This means you have your eyes opened to many different topics and get ideas for potential career options across the different subject areas.

My next steps

I've been accepted onto an MSc at University of Bristol where I'll be studying Global Wildlife Health and Conservation. I would not have been able to get onto this course without the skills and knowledge I've obtained from my undergraduate studies in Environmental Science.

"This course has really set me up for a career working with the natural world and wildlife that compliments my passions and life goals."

I recommend Bath Spa because...

Newton Park campus is such a beautiful and positive place to study. You also get a personal experience with the lecturers who know your name and show an interest in what you’re passionate about. When I was applying for university, I didn't realise this would be such an important aspect of my university experience.

My advice for prospective students

Make the most of your three or four years as an undergraduate. They go by quickly, so it's important to really appreciate and take advantage of the opportunities that the university provides.