Jonathan Howard (Masters/REACH Centre)
Name: Jonathan Howard
Subject: BSc Environmental Science
Year Graduated: 2016
College: Pendle
Where are you now and what are you doing?
I am currently 4 months into my Master’s in Contamination, Risk Assessment and Remediation at Lancaster University which incorporates everything from studying pollution microbiology and remediation strategies to undertaking chemical risk assessments on real-life situations in the environment. As well as this, I work part time as an Information Scientist at the REACH Centre. This was a great opportunity to put everything I have learnt about chemical management into practice!
What would you like to do next?
Following my Master’s I would like to get a job linked to Environmental Consultancy and chemical management.
Why did you choose to study at Lancaster?
The thing that attracted me to Lancaster was its friendly atmosphere on the open day. I came on the day that the annual Campus Festival was taking place which showcased all the different societies and activities which anyone could get involved with. As well as this, I loved the idea of being attached to a college and the rivalries associated with it – especially when both my parents and sister came to this university and were in different colleges!
What was your favourite part of your degree and why?
The favourite part of my degree was the wide range of field trips available which allowed us to apply our studies to real situations in the world. As well as this, the small yearly intake meant that we got to know everyone on our course. I loved the fact you could walk into a lecture and know everyone, including the lecturers!
How do you think your time at Lancaster prepared you for what you’re currently doing?
My undergraduate degree prepared me very well for my Master’s course by introducing me to many areas of the environmental sector that I was previously unaware of. The wide range of modules offered, taught by outstanding lecturers, enabled me to focus my studies to the behaviour of chemicals in the environment, which I am currently doing in my Master’s.
What did you enjoy most about your time at Lancaster?
Coming to Lancaster University was the best decision I have ever made. Being a member of Lancaster University Korfball Club allowed me to make friends, travel and create memories with people from all around the UK. The entire university experience is something that I will remember forever and I hope to regularly come back and visit Lancaster when I leave at the end of the year!
