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I have worked in the nature conservation/environment sector since graduating in 2006, and I've held a wide variety of roles including practical conservation, policy and public engagement  in both the public and charitable sectors. My current role with the RSPB involves working with the local farming community in County Fermanagh, Northern Ireland to help provide advice and support to encourage a more nature friendly approach to farming.

Studying Geography at Sheffield gave a good grounding in environmentally related subjects and paved the way for me to go on to complete a masters degree in Wildlife Conservation and then pursue a career in this field. It also provided me with many useful soft skills e.g. teamwork, communication and time management. 

Studying at Sheffield was a brilliant experience. I love the city - the friendliness of the locals, the amount of green space within the city and its proximity to the Peak District were huge positives for me. I was taught by some great tutors who were not only experts in their fields but also showed a genuine interest in the development of their students. 

My advice to anyone interested in pursing a career in conservation is get as much voluntary experience as you can, as soon as you can. It is essential to have unpaid work experience if you want to pursue a career in nature conservation so seek out opportunities with organisations like the RSPB, the Wildlife Trusts, National Trust etc - if you can fit this around your studies this will give you a head start when you graduate.