Changing career: from Gardener to Ecologist

Bec Smith is currently studying Applied Ecology MSc full time at UoG. Read what Bec has to say about the course.

What is your background and what brought you to study this course?

I’ve always enjoyed being outdoors and have worked as an organic gardener for the past 25 years since completing my undergraduate degree in garden design. Despite having a strong interest in all aspects of the natural world, I lacked focus as a teenager and gained no scientific education beyond AS level Biology. I thought I had missed my chance to work in ecology. Discovering the MSc in Applied Ecology at UoG opened a door to a career change for me I hadn’t expected.

Did you attend an open event/meet the lecturer event?

I didn’t attend an open day but contacted the course leader Prof. Anne Goodenough directly and arranged to meet on campus for a one-to-one discussion about options. She was very encouraging and supportive that my non-academic background and long break from education wouldn’t be a barrier.

How did you find the transition onto the course?

The transition to a postgraduate level course was a challenge as I had not written at length since my A levels and never scientifically or with referencing so that was a new concept for me which took time to adapt to. The further I progressed, though, the more confidence I gained in my ability to write and produce assignments at the expected level.

What have you enjoyed most about the course?

I’ve enjoyed being able to join the dots, make connections and explore ideas in depth through reading a vast array of scientific literature. Alongside applying the skills that I learnt in the GIS mapping module to other assignments, I’ve enjoyed all the practical sessions. A favourite session involved exploring the contents of insect surveys under a microscope in the lab.

What’s next?

I plan to use the skills learnt on the course to secure a job locally as an ecologist. However, I have enjoyed my time back in education so much that I hope my learning journey doesn’t end here.

How to apply