What inspired you to become an environmental consultant, and what degree did you study to help you achieve this?
From an early age, I have been passionate about nature, spending most of my time outdoors and immersing myself in the natural world. At school, I prioritised science above all else, especially biology, as it allowed me to learn the dynamics and systems of the natural world. This commitment led me to pursue a BSc in zoology, during which I focused on the interactions between species and habitats critical to the health of ecosystems in the UK, such as the keystone species the Eurasian beaver, which plays a pivotal role in shaping freshwater habitats, an aspect increasingly relevant amid today’s climate change and rising flood risks.
Building on this foundation, I pursued a master’s degree in environmental biology: conservation and resource management. My studies expanded to examine global conservation challenges and sustainable resource management, emphasising humanity’s responsibility in the sustainable stewardship of our planet’s resources. This experience inspired me to explore environmental consulting, particularly in the private sector, where I could apply science-based solutions to balance ecological preservation within construction and gas and oil activities. My career choice was driven by the opportunity to engage in real-world problem-solving and make informed trade-offs that support the preservation of natural habitats and biodiversity for future generations.
What attracted you to a role in the UAE, and how did you find your transition from the UK to Dubai?
This role in the UAE appealed to me, as I had recently completed five years of higher education, including a foundation year and a master’s degree. During this time, the onset of COVID-19 interrupted pivotal years of my academic development, including international field trips, which were essential for fieldwork experience. This left me eager for a unique challenge and an opportunity to gain some on-site experience. Moving to the UAE for this role was a chance to explore an extraordinary environment and acquire some good practical knowledge. In comparison to the UK, projects within the UAE move at a much faster pace, with tight timelines driving productivity. This allows me to feel a sense of accomplishment in this role.
While I was confident in my decision, I was initially apprehensive about relocating, given my limited knowledge of the UAE and the logistics involved. However, connecting with my colleagues ahead of the move provided much support. Upon my arrival, Dubai was admittedly overwhelming, but I quickly found a welcoming community both at work and in various social activities, such as through rock climbing, netball and athletics clubs. The office culture was incredibly supportive, fostering a sense of belonging that eased the transition.
Can you briefly describe some of the projects or tasks you’ve been involved in that have helped you grow as a consultant?
One of the largest, ongoing projects I have been involved in is fieldwork taking place in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA). These fieldwork opportunities have required frequent travel to KSA, where I’ve gained a deep appreciation for the region’s unique culture. Unlike Dubai, which is comparatively modern, KSA maintains strong traditional values. Immersing myself in this environment has expanded my cultural perspective, shifting my mindset from a more individualistic approach, common in Western contexts, to one that values community and collective purpose. This cultural awareness has enhanced my patience and adaptability, which have proven essential during long field stays, allowing for more seamless project execution, even when challenges from fieldwork inevitably arise.
Throughout these projects, my role has evolved from report writing to leading field teams and engaging in client-facing meetings. This experience has also fostered my confidence, particularly in navigating extended field deployments under challenging conditions, such as extreme heat. Working closely with colleagues over these extended periods has strengthened our support networks, which carry over into the office, fostering an environment where we encourage one another’s professional growth and collaborate more effectively.
How have opportunities for professional development and site work in the Middle East helped shape your skills and career path expectations?
After just seven months of fieldwork experience, I was recently appointed as the survey lead on a project trip to KSA. This early recognition boosted my confidence and affirmed my career trajectory, as it was an unexpected level of trust to be given at this stage in my career. The experience has reinforced my interest in in situ site work, and I am keen to take on more responsibilities in project planning, costing and budgeting. Looking forward, I aspire to manage my own projects, building on this momentum to develop the skills and experience needed to transition into a project management role.
What advice would you give other graduates considering RSK for a graduate position?
If you are seeking work that will challenge not only your resilience but also your core beliefs and values, this is the path for you. It’s a chance to experience parts of the world you may never have imagined visiting, let alone working in. Commit fully to your decision, and you’ll discover new aspects of yourself along the way. While the journey won’t always be easy, you will learn and progress quickly. Most importantly, you’ll find a supportive environment where fairness and respect are paramount and colleagues who understand the sacrifices involved in relocating, many of whom have taken that same leap.
