Patrick Roberts - BSc (Hons) Physical Geography and Geology graduate

“Great location in the south west, plenty of things to do in the city all within walking distance. In general the University population is very friendly and outgoing and the bars are always busy. Also, the courses tend to be focussed around the students’ needs.”

Tell us about your career path since graduation.

After finishing exams May 2014, I emailed Geotech after meeting them at the Geoscience careers fair. They got back to me the same day, offered me an interview and I started working at the end of July the same year.

I undertook informal training for the first five months and as soon as I was deemed competent I started running my own jobs. I have also been able to undertake several training courses. I am still new to the job so am looking forward to seeing how my career progresses.

What is the most difficult thing which you have faced in your career?

Adapting to the managerial/logistical aspect of my work. At university I learned about geology and earth science, but learning how to co-ordinate a team of drillers and overcome problems on site whilst running a ground investigation has been the biggest challenge.

What is the best, most exciting or fun thing that you have done in your career?

The stay away jobs are fun, especially if there is a large team all staying together. We managed to get digs in Centre Parks in Cumbria. Getting paid to go on water slides after work is probably up there as a highlight.

What advice would you give to anyone wanting to get in to the same line of work?

Talk to people in the industry; engage with any careers fairs or PDP modules available. Also, come in with an open mind and be prepared, whilst on site, for things to not always go to plan.

What is your favourite memory of studying at Plymouth?

Field trips to Spain and Morocco were pretty cool. But the day of my last summer ball was probably the one: it was a lovely day, we had beers and a barbecue at the Hoe, and then a top night at the summer ball.

Would you recommend undertaking a course with Plymouth University, and why?

Definitely! Great location in the south west, plenty of things to do in the city all within walking distance. In general the University population is very friendly and outgoing and the bars are always busy. Also, the courses tend to be focussed around the students’ needs.

I am still in contact with many of my university friends and also a few of the lecturers. Martin Stokes is particularly active in engaging with the alumni.